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.
Essential selection criteria:
Audit and Financial Oversight Expertise: Demonstrated knowledge and experience in one or more of the following:
- External audit processes
- Financial reporting and accounting standards
- Public sector or local government financial management
Risk Management and Governance Experience: Demonstrated experience in:
- Enterprise or organisational risk management frameworks
- Internal control systems
- Governance, compliance and assurance environments
Committee and Chairing Experience: Demonstrated ability to:
- Chair or actively participate in advisory, audit or governance committees
- Facilitate structured discussion, debate and decision-making
- Ensure meetings are conducted in accordance with legislative and procedural requirements
Understanding of Public Sector / Local Government Environment Knowledge of:
- Public sector governance principles
- Accountability and transparency obligations
- Legislative compliance frameworks relevant to local government (or equivalent public bodies)
Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills Ability to:
- Review complex reports and identify key issues, risks and trends
- Provide clear, independent advice to Council
- Focus on both assurance and continuous improvement
Professional Integrity and Ethical Standards Demonstrated:
- High ethical standards and professionalism
- Willingness to declare and manage conflicts of interest
- Commitment to confidentiality and impartial decision-making
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.
Current Remuneration Range
For independent ARIC members, including the Independent Chairperson:
- Minimum: $105 per meeting
- Maximum: $1,215 per meeting
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.