The Commonwealth Risk Committee (the CRC) met on the 26 September 2024 via Microsoft Teams to discuss the following matters:
Managing the risk of low levels of trust in Government
The Committee discussed the importance of the public’s trust in the Australian Public Service and Government and the drivers of mistrust. Complex regulation, misinformation, and the impact of ‑high-profile Government program failures were identified as areas requiring focused attention. The Committee agreed to undertake further work on this risk and will report back to the Chief Operating Officer’s Committee (COO Committee) with recommendations.
Considering shared significant risk
The CRC received a presentation considering the findings of the Victorian Auditor General’s Office (VAGO) review of the Victorian Government’s State Significant Risk Inter-Departmental Committee. This analysis informed a discussion on the CRC’s crucial role in overseeing shared and emerging risks at the Commonwealth level.
Commonwealth Risk Committee evaluation key findings
The first annual Commonwealth Risk Committee evaluation is underway. Preliminary findings have been reviewed by the Committee, and their feedback will inform the final report. Following endorsement by the Chair and an Independent Assessor, the evaluation will be shared with Committee members and relevant stakeholders.
Re-establishing the CRO Network
The Committee noted the re-establishment of the Chief Risk Officers (CRO) Network. The Committee endorsed the development of communiques to be provided to the CRO Network to share information, consult on relevant matters and to avoid duplication of effort in managing risk.
Conflict of interest and confidentiality review
The Department of Finance provided an update to the Committee on conflict of interest and confidentiality guidance. The Committee provided comment and will continue to act as a steering Committee in the future progress of the review.
Next Meetings
The next Commonwealth Risk Committee meeting is scheduled for November 14, 2024.
