Unit of competency details

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a Unit of Competency

Performance criteria describe the required performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised  text is used, further information is detailed in the Range Statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the Evidence Guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1 Ensure council procedures comply with relevant legislation 

1.1 Council procedures are documented in line with legislative requirements.

1.2 Council procedures are updated to reflect changes in legislation  as necessary.

2 Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation 

2.1 Sources of information  on relevant legislation are identified and accessed.

2.2 Strategies are established to ensure dissemination of information on legislation to relevant staff.

2.3 Knowledge of legislation that is significant to local government is always up to date.

3 Monitor procedures to ensure compliance 

3.1 Procedures  are regularly examined to ensure ongoing compliance with relevant legislation.

3.2 Required changes to procedures are identified and actioned accordingly.

3.3 Changes to procedures are approved, documented and communicated to relevant personnel.

4 Identify and rectify breaches in compliance 

4.1 Audits or random checks are conducted to determine the extent to which procedures are implemented in accordance with legislative requirements.

4.2 Breaches in compliance are noted and addressed immediately.

4.3 Causes of any breaches  in compliance are identified and addressed immediately.

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit.

Required Skills 

• interpretation of the impact of legislative changes on council procedures
• maintenance of internal communication channels
• analytical skills in order to read and critically interpret structurally intricate information
• clear and comprehensive reporting of analysis of information

Required Knowledge 

• council procedures for compliance
• relevant legislation
• council's internal communication channels
• local government structure
• staff roles and responsibilities

Overview of assessment requirements 

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit will be able to perform the outcomes described in the Elements to the required performance level detailed in the Performance Criteria. The knowledge and skill requirements described in the Range Statement must also be demonstrated. For example, knowledge of the legislative framework and safe work practices that underpin the performance of the unit are also required to be demonstrated.

Critical aspects of evidence to be considered 

This unit requires the demonstrated ability to monitor council procedures for compliance with relevant legislation. This includes:

• determining and implementing strategies for ensuring staff members have current information
• identifying procedures to be reviewed for compliance
• updating procedures as necessary
• determining breaches and rectifying causes of breaches

Context of assessment 

Assessment of performance requirements in this unit should be undertaken within the context of the local government framework. Competency is demonstrated by performance of all stated criteria, including the Range of Variables applicable to the workplace environment.

Method of assessment 

The following assessment methods are suggested:

• observation of the learner performing a range of workplace tasks over sufficient time to demonstrate handling of a range of contingencies
• written and/or oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding
• completion of workplace documentation
• third-party reports from experienced practitioners
• completion of self-paced learning materials including personal reflection and feedback from trainer, coach or supervisor

Evidence required for demonstration of consistent performance 

Evidence should be gathered over a period of time in a range of actual or simulated management environments.

Resource implications 

Access to a workplace or simulated case study that enables access to council meetings and other relevant resources where council procedures are discussed or developed.

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised  wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Legislation  may relate to:

• federal
• state
• local government by-laws
• employment
• occupational health and safety
• environmental and sustainability
• privacy and confidentiality

Sources of information  may include:

• Australian government publishing service
• state or territory parliaments
• managers and internal staff in specialist areas
• other external agencies and departments
• internal or external committees
• advisory groups or associations

Procedures  may include:

• operating procedures
• policy implementation

Causes of breaches  may be the result of:

• inadequate training of staff
• failed communication to relevant staff of procedural changes
• use of outdated stationery or documentation