Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council Audit and Risk Committee Meeting – 7th June 2024
The Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council (CASC) recently held a significant Audit and Risk Committee meeting on 7th June 2024. This committee plays a crucial role in ensuring the financial health and governance of the council, providing oversight and strategic guidance to promote accountability and transparency within the organisation.
Committee Overview
The Audit and Risk Committee is tasked with overseeing the integrity of CASC’s financial reporting, compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, the performance of the internal and external auditors, and the effectiveness of the council’s risk management framework. Last Friday’s meeting was chaired by independent member Scott Mead, the committee meeting included another independent member, Mark Pitt, alongside key council members, Mayor Bruce Simpson and Councilor Daniel Weazel. Their collective knowledges and expertise ensure robust scrutiny and advice on financial and strategic matters.
Meeting Highlights
- Housing Challenges: The committee addressed the significant challenges related to housing in Cherbourg, focusing on the high costs of construction and challenging property price expectations. These issues underscore the need for innovative solutions and sustainable financial strategies to meet community housing needs.
- Cybersecurity: A report on future threats in cybersecurity was discussed, highlighting the importance of protecting council data and infrastructure against potential cyber threats. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of council operations.
- Asset Management: The committee emphasised the critical role of effective asset management in supporting responsible growth. Discussions included strategies for managing assets at the end of their life cycle and ensuring financial sustainability moving forward.
- Specialised Roles and Growth: The need to create and fill specialised roles to support our council business growth and financial sustainability was highlighted. Effective communication is key to securing support and funding, essential for the council’s development plans.
- Water Infrastructure: Aging water infrastructure, with some components dating back to the 1960s, presents significant challenges. The committee discussed the importance of upgrading the water treatment system and the need for substantial funding to replace old pipes and improve water security.
- Community Engagement: The importance of communicating the council’s goals, ambitions, and priorities to the community was stressed. Transparent and effective communication is vital for building community support and attracting funding from external bodies.
The Audit and Risk Committee’s diligent work and strategic oversight are instrumental in guiding the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council towards a sustainable and prosperous future, addressing both immediate and long-term challenges in housing, infrastructure, and financial management.
