The Commonwealth Risk Committee (the CRC) met on the 26 February 2026 via Microsoft Teams to discuss the following matters:
Options to strengthen the visibility of risk across the APS
At the November 2025 meeting of the CRC, it was agreed that the Chair and Secretariat develop options for a proposed format for a Commonwealth Risk Register to be discussed at the February 2026 meeting.
The CRC discussed options, noting that the current operating environment does not have appetite for increased regulatory or governance burden. Members favoured a light‑touch approach that minimises burden on entities, leverages existing data sources, and focuses on improving data quality.
A paper will be progressed to the COO Committee with the proposed option to seek their approval to progress with this project.
Forward Workplan
Members discussed the proposed forward workplan for 2026, drafted in alignment with COO Committee priorities and in consultation with CRC members. The Forward workplan was endorsed with minor changes in consideration of the CRO Network being re-established.
Chief Risk Officer’s Network update
The CRC heard a brief update on the Chief Risk Officer’s (CRO) Network and the inaugural meeting in December 2025, which focused on the APS AI Plan and the role of the CRO in AI adoption. The next CRO Network meeting is scheduled for 18 March and will be hosted virtually, chaired by Simon Newnham, CRO at the Department of Finance.
Next Meetings
Thursday 9 April 2026.
Lead Agency Contact
CRC Secretariat
Department to Finance
Risk and Insurance Branch
1800 651 540 (Option 4)
Commonwealthriskcommittee@finance.gov.au
