The Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) is a committee of Council established under the Local Government Act 1995 and associated regulations.
The ARIC provides independent oversight and advice to Council in relation to:
- External and internal audit
- Financial management and reporting
- Risk management and business continuity
- Internal controls
- Legislative compliance and integrity
- Continuous improvement and organisational performance
The Committee supports Council in fulfilling its governance, accountability and assurance responsibilities.
The ARIC comprises:
- An Independent Presiding Member (Chairperson)
- An Independent Deputy of the Presiding Member
- Elected Members of Council
Independent members are appointed external to the elected Council and the Shire’s administrative operations.
The Independent Presiding Member is responsible for:
- Presiding over ARIC meetings in accordance with the Local Government Act 1995, associated regulations and Shire meeting procedures
- Facilitating effective discussion, debate and decision-making
- Ensuring the Committee fulfils its statutory functions
- Providing independent, objective advice to Council
- Liaising with the Chief Executive Officer, auditors and senior officers as required
The Deputy of the Presiding Member performs these functions in the absence of the Presiding Member.
Applicants must be independent, meaning they must not be:
- A current councillor of any local government; or
- An employee of any local government.
Former councillors are eligible.
Selection will be based on demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following:
- Internal and/or external audit
- Risk management and internal controls
- Financial reporting and public sector financial management
- Governance, compliance and assurance
- Public sector or local government performance
Applicants must demonstrate high ethical standards, independence of judgement and the ability to manage conflicts of interest.
Independent ARIC members are paid a meeting attendance fee in accordance with section 5.100 of the Local Government Act 1995, within the prescribed fee range.
Reasonable travel and associated expenses may also be reimbursed in accordance with Shire policy.
Appointments are for a term of up to two years, expiring on the day of the next Ordinary Council election. Members may be eligible for reappointment in accordance with legislative requirements.
The ARIC meets at least quarterly, with additional meetings scheduled as required (for example, to consider audit reports or annual financial statements).
Meetings are generally held in person at the Shire of Harvey Administration Building.