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Risk oversight and management
The General Manager as the Accountable Authority is responsible for ensuring the Fair Work Commission meets the requirements of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013. The Commission will ensure that high standards of governance, performance and accountability are met, that public resources are managed properly, and that meaningful information is provided to Parliament and the public, including through the Commission’s annual report.
In line with the risk management framework introduced by the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013, the Commission will continue to embed a contemporary risk management culture and practices across the organisation.
The Commission’s Risk framework is consistent with the Commonwealth Risk Management Policy and includes our risk management policy and guidelines, accompanied by a range of resources including risk registers and treatment plans.
The Commission has an independent audit committee which provides an independent source of assurance and advice to the General Manager on the appropriateness of the Commission’s financial and performance reporting, and risk management framework.
Key risks
The most relevant risk to the Commission’s day to day operations is maintaining its reputation as an independent and expert workplace relations tribunal that is accessible to all Australians. The Commission maintains its reputation by performing statutory functions and exercising associated powers according to its legislative mandate in a manner that is fair and just; quick, informal and avoids unnecessary technicalities; open and transparent; and promotes harmonious and cooperative workplace relations.
It is important that the Commission meets the needs of the Australian community who utilise its services. This is brought into great focus at times of major disruptions to the labour force, such as the COVID‑19 pandemic.
Members of the tribunal are supported in performing their statutory functions by Commission staff. This makes the attraction, retention and promotion of quality staff a risk which is mitigated by building and maintaining workforce capability through staff training and personal development.
Another significant risk concern is ensuring that the information the Commission provides to tribunal users and to the Australian community is accurate, up to date and relevant to their needs. By continuing to improve the quality of the Commission’s information, such as that provided on its website, the Commission helps tribunal users understand its processes and their likely outcomes so they can participate with confidence in matters before the Commission.
Updated time
Last updated
31 August 2020
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