The year 2024 saw two significant procurement scandals that exposed critical failures in probity and governance within Australian government agencies: Tourism Australia and the Australian Passport Office. Both incidents revealed troubling lapses in transparency, ethical conduct, and adherence to the Commonwealth Procurement Rules (CPRs), raising serious concerns about how public funds are managed and the […]

Converting Dreams into Reality In our current crisis of housing affordability and availability, development approvals are under significant pressure. Rules are changing, technology and systems can be both frustrating and demanding, planners are in demand between Councils and across different sectors, and developers and citizens are often chasing multiple and sometimes conflicting outcomes. State government […]

The recent local council elections in NSW have triggered leadership transitions and will result in temporary vacancies in key leadership roles for many councils. While this is a normal part of post-election change, it can delay decision-making, disrupt the reassessment of crucial frameworks and policies, and raise serious governance challenges. Due to geographical challenges, this issue is […]

Introduction Most recently, the conversation around workplace discrimination has evolved significantly, particularly with the introduction of the Positive Duty under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth). This statutory obligation represents a fundamental shift in how Australian organisations and employers approach issues of sex discrimination and harassment in the workplace. Rather than merely responding to incidents […]

A Significant Asset Art isn't just about aesthetics; it's a significant asset for councils. From sculptures gracing public squares to paintings adorning council buildings, these pieces enrich our spaces, reflect the community's character, and offer a window into our history, diversity, and local identity. Many councils are fortunate to hold collections encompassing colonial pieces, contemporary […]

This week [12-16 August 2024] is Bullying No Way Week, Australia’s key bullying prevention initiative that connects schools and communities to find workable solutions to prevent bullying. This year’s theme is Everyone belongs: when we feel like we belong, bullying struggles to find a place. While this is important in all settings, it is more […]

Introduction Within Australia the contemporary workplace is increasingly recognised as a critical environment influencing employee mental health and overall well-being. Psychosocial injuries, stemming from adverse psychological and social factors, can significantly affect employees' health, productivity, and organisational culture. This short blog explores the nature of psychosocial injury risk in the workplace, identifying contributing factors and […]

This NAIDOC Week from July 7-14, 2024, Centium joins communities across Australia in celebrating the rich and diverse cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s theme "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud," beautifully symbolises the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture. We acknowledge the immense privilege of living […]

Another Review Finds Vulnerabilities: Millions lost through fraud and corruption in Victorian Government procurement Ensuring the integrity and transparency of procurement processes is crucial for public trust and value for money. Yet another audit of public sector procurement processes, this time in Victoria, has found government agencies lacking in this area. The Victorian Auditor-General’s report, […]

As you are aware the governance structure of an organisation consists of a web of values, principles and practices. Within this intricate framework, boards and directors hold the reins, steering the ship to achieve the organisation's mission and objectives. It's a role that demands not just leadership but a high standard of ethical conduct, ensuring […]

This Sunday, 23 June 2024, marks World Whistleblowers Day, an important occasion to recognise the courage and significance of individuals who speak up about misconduct, fraud, corruption, waste of public money, or other unethical behaviour. In New South Wales, the Ombudsman's office is the primary point of contact for advice and guidance under the Public […]