Policy Reviews 9 November 2022

All Council policies need to be reviewed within 12 months after the Local Government Election. We now have a further policy up for review. Changes made to the polices as part of this review process are outlined below:

Compliance Obligations Policy – previously ‘Legislative Compliance Policy’

The name change reflects that compliance is more than just legislative compliance and encompasses the entirety of Council’s compliance obligations.

Although Council has recently signed up to Local Government Legal, which provides legislative compliance updates in relation to all pieces of legislation affecting NSW Councils, there needs to be a more holistic framework in place. This will assist in ensuring that legislative changes are appropriately assessed (in relation to the impact on the organisation), implemented, monitored, and reviewed.

Many councils focus on meeting compliance requirements through addressing the Office of Local Government Compliance Calendar. However, this only represents a portion of Council’s compliance reporting requirements.

The change in policy aligns with the increased focus on compliance and having a level of assurance that Council is meeting its obligations.

The policy provides a basis on which to build a more robust compliance framework and capability within the organisation. It will assist with:

• Implementation of compliance related changes
• Reporting to the audit, risk and improvement committee on compliance matters
• Satisfy the Audit Office of NSW
• Assist with building a positive compliance culture
• Better integration with the Ethical and Anti-Fraud and Corruption Frameworks

Have your say

• By completing the survey below by Thursday 8 December 2022
• By email to council@qprc.nsw.gov.au referencing "Policy reviews 9 November 2022 meeting" in the subject line
• By mail to PO Box 90, Queanbeyan NSW 2620