The NSW Auditor General released his Local Government 2024 report in March this year, and it highlighted some of the financial vulnerabilities that we know exist within the sector.

One of the key financial benchmarks used to track council performance by the NSW Auditor General and the NSW Office of Local Government is the operating performance ratio. This ratio provides an indication of whether the Council is carrying ongoing deficits, and the benchmark is a break even average over three years.

Procurement and contract management have evolved far beyond simple business functions. Today, they serve as strategic levers – capable of driving measurable success and mitigating serious risks such as mismanagement, fraud and corruption. This dual focus is particularly vital for government bodies and small to medium-sized organisations, where budgets are finite and accountability is paramount.

Climate change is here, and its effects are increasingly shaping our world. For those of us in all levels of government, this isn't just a global issue; it's a reality we're grappling with every day. As communities look to us for leadership and resilience, how effectively we monitor and report on our climate adaptation efforts has never been more critical.

The rising tide of psychological injuries in NSW workplaces is demanding a critical shift in how we address workplace safety. With proposed legislative changes on the horizon, businesses must prepare for a new era focused on prevention and proactive support. This article explores the impending reforms, the undeniable link between bullying and mental health, and actionable strategies for employers to consider taking to cultivate healthier, more resilient work environments. For professionals navigating the complexities of employee well-being, workplace relations, and organisational health, understanding these changes is paramount.

Government contracts represent significant investments of public funds, designed to deliver essential services and infrastructure. Ideally, contractual agreements should serve as catalysts for streamlined work practices and substantial savings. However, the reality often diverges sharply from this ideal. Too frequently, contracts are signed with enthusiasm and then relegated to dusty filing cabinets, only to be unearthed when a crisis erupts throughout the contract period or after the project’s completion.

Records management is constantly evolving, and as of February 2025, significant changes that will impact public sector agencies have come into effect. These updates, along with common challenges we observe in our audits, highlight the importance of robust and adaptable records management strategies. This blog post will guide you through the key changes and highlight crucial areas of focus.

In September 2021 the NSW Office of Local Government published guidelines for Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R), which included a new requirement to publish a program of Service Reviews. The guidelines also specified an associated new reporting requirement: