Policy guides council in risk management
A policy adopted by Baw Baw Shire is expected to assist councillors and staff to better manage operational risks.
The risk management policy and risk management framework documents were adopted by council earlier this month.
Councillors had previously received training in risk management.
The policy aims to streamline council’s risk management functions and improve risk management processes, resources, systems, leadership and staff training.
The policy is supported by a framework, which has been developed in collaboration with South Gippsland Shire Council, describing a shared vision for managing risk translated into every day practice.
The policy states council is committed to establishing an appropriate risk management culture by applying a logical and systematic method for identifying, assessing, treating and monitoring risks.
The framework also outlines the level of risk council is prepared to accept in key areas including ethical leadership, reputation, governance, compliance, community and relationships, financial resources, environmental responsibility and occupational health and safety.
Cr Danny Goss said the policy and framework looked at the risk side of council’s operations.
“It is about getting on the front foot rather than waiting for things to happen.
He said the policy sets out the controls and consequences of actions.
Cr Darren Wallace said the failure to implement the framework would put council at risk of adverse financial impacts and reduce council’s ability to harness opportunity and grow.
Interim chief executive officer Phil Cantillon said risk management was about striving for excellence and was an integral part of good governance, decision making, organisational management and growth.
“As an organisation that manages and delivers so many services, facilities and projects; it’s imperative that we have a clear and concise approach to how we identify and manage risk,” Mr Cantillon said.
“Most importantly, risk management is a process of continuous improvement which enables us to deliver better outcomes for the communities in which we serve.
Mr Cantillon said it had been great working with South Gippsland Shire Council on the project.
“From an organisational perspective, we face similar challenges and opportunities. By putting our heads together we have been able to develop a thorough framework to best guide our business improvements and operational efficiencies.”
Both Councils have entered into a Risk Management (Collaborative Services) Agreement to ensure a shared, best practice risk minimisation culture and approach across both organisations.
The policy and framework further align with the new council plan’s objective to continually commit to organisational excellence by being innovative, community focused and future ready while also improving council’s services, systems and business processes.