Council’s Audit and Risk Committee delivers strong results

Published on 31 October 2025

The ongoing contribution of Council's Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) to strong governance, integrity and financial accountability across the organisation was highlighted in a report tabled at yesterday's Ordinary Meeting.

Councillor Amanda Hay, who serves as a member of the ARC along with Cr Jennifer Sanders and Cr Marshall Chalk as proxy, said the Audit and Risk Committee Annual Report 2024-2025 reflects a year of strengthened oversight and improved risk management.

“The committee has played an important role in ensuring Council continues to meet its governance, audit, and compliance responsibilities to the highest standard,” Cr Hay said.

"Audit and risk is not just about the finances - it covers governance, fraud, corruption and misconduct, strategic risks, external audit, financial management, quarterly budget reviews, internal audit updates, internal audit reports, continuous assurance updates, implementation of audit reports, an HR update and a CEO update so it's a very comprehensive package.

“Over the past year, the ARC has focused on deepening its understanding of emerging risks, including infrastructure resilience, cybersecurity, and financial sustainability, while continuing to ensure Council’s control environment and assurance processes are robust and effective."

Meeting five times during the 2024–2025 financial year, the ARC provided independent oversight of Council’s financial reporting, internal and external audit activities, and the management of key risks.

Enhanced reporting and greater transparency were hallmarks of the year, with more comprehensive information provided to the committee and stronger follow-up on long-standing audit actions.

Key areas of focus included governance and risk management, including development of a Fraud Risk Register and new privacy compliance processes, oversight of external audit planning and a review of financial statements.

There was also support for internal audit activities covering procurement, grants management, asset management maturity, environmental compliance, and continued monitoring of management’s implementation of agreed audit actions.

Cr Hay said the committee’s work underpins public confidence in Council’s governance and decision making.

“This report demonstrates Council’s commitment to transparency, continuous improvement, and accountability in how we manage public resources,” she said.

“Strong governance builds community trust and ensures our organisation remains resilient and future-focused.”