Access to Public Sector Information

Body
Public sector information is recognised as one of government’s most valuable assets due to its ability to drive innovation, contribute to community outcomes and facilitate economic development. The audit will assess whether selected agencies are effectively facilitating access to public sector information.

Appendix A. Audit Act 1994 section 16—submissions and comments

Introduction

In accordance with section 16(3) of the Audit Act 1994, a copy of this report, or part of this report, was provided to the Department of Premier & Cabinet, the Victorian Public Sector Commission, the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport & Resources (Creative Victoria), Arts Centre Melbourne, the National Gallery of Victoria and Museum Victoria.

3 Understanding gifts, benefits and hospitality risks

At a glance

Background

Agencies should be able to demonstrate that they understand the nature and significance of gifts, benefits and hospitality (GB&H) risks, have applied appropriate controls to manage these and have consulted and communicated agency expectations and requirements to relevant stakeholders. This Part examines the quality and comprehensiveness of agencies' approaches to achieve these things.

2 Managing gifts, benefits and hospitality risks

At a glance

Background

Agencies should be able to demonstrate that they are effectively managing gifts, benefits and hospitality (GB&H) and meeting the minimum requirements and accountabilities of the current GB&H policy framework. This Part examines whether agencies' approaches to managing GB&H have been effective and informed by appropriate monitoring, reporting and oversight of these activities.

1 Background

1.1 Introduction

Victorians trust that public sector employees will perform their duties impartially and use public resources responsibly to pursue government's objectives and benefit the community. The giving and receiving of gifts, benefits and hospitality (GB&H) can be a legitimate and appropriate part of doing government business. However, the inadequate management of these activities risks diminishing public trust and undermining the integrity of decisions made by public sector employees.

Appendix C. Audit Act 1994 section 16—submissions and comments

Introduction

In accordance with section 16(3) of the Audit Act 1994, a copy of this report, or part of this report, was provided to the Department of Premier & Cabinet, the Department of Treasury & Finance, the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport & Resources, the Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning, the Department of Justice & Regulation, the Victorian Government Solicitor's Office, Linking Melbourne Authority, VicRoads, Environment Protection Authority, Planning Panels Victoria and the Treasury Corporation of Victoria