Audit Committee
Council's Audit Committee oversees and monitors the effectiveness of Council in carrying out its responsibilities for:
- accountable financial management
- good corporate governance
- maintaining a system of internal controls
- risk management
- fostering an ethical environment.
The Audit Committee meets quarterly and reports to Council as an Advisory Committee of Council. Download a copy of the Audit Committee Charter (PDF, 494 kB).
The Audit Committee comprises three Councillors and three independent members. In May 2013 the members of the Audit Committee were:
Councillor members:
Cr Jack Wegman
Cr Judith Voce
Cr Jim Parke
Independent members:
Mr David Ashmore
Mr Todd Davies
Mrs Beverley Excell
The Chief Executive Officer, Director Corporate Services, Manager Financial Services and Internal Auditor attend all meetings, but are not voting members.
Matters commonly discussed at the Audit Committee meetings include:
- internal and external audit reports
- implementation status of audit recommendations
- financial statements
- internal audit performance data
- updates from the Fraud Control Group and Risk Executive Group
- reports relating to governance, legislative compliance and information technology
- other reports from Council officers.
Internal audit
Council's internal audit services are provided by an in-house Internal Auditor, supplemented by Crowe Horwath Council's external provider. This allows us to deliver a comprehensive Internal Audit Plan in a flexible and cost effective manner, with access to specialist resources as required.
The annual Internal Audit Plan was developed – with consideration of Council's risk register and through consultation with management – to direct audit resources to areas of greatest risk. The Internal Audit Plan is reviewed by the Audit Committee and approved by Council, with plan execution and follow up of report findings monitored by the Audit Committee quarterly.
Fraud and corruption control
Council's adopted Fraud and Corruption Control Policy aims to minimise departmental risks related to fraud and corruption. It also aims to minimise risks of significant fines or non-monetary sanctions for non-compliance with laws and regulations. The associated Fraud Control Group reports regularly to the Audit Committee on its actions. Staff receive regular training on relevant Council policies and awareness issues.