The Lobbying Act and the Lobbyists' Code of Conduct are based on four principles:

• Free and open access to government is an important matter of public interest.
• Lobbying public office holders is a legitimate activity.
• It is desirable that public office holders and the public be able to know who is engaged in lobbying activities.
• The system for the registration of paid lobbyists should not impede free and open access to government.