This unit supports the attainment of skills and knowledge required for competent workplace performance in remote and Indigenous communities and councils. Knowledge of the legislation and regulations within which councils must operate is essential. The role of elected members and senior management in leading and supporting their communities, and the identification of processes and solutions to meet the specific needs of communities, must be appropriately reflected.

Prerequisite Unit/s

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Demonstrate awareness of roles and responsibilities in the performance of council activities

1.1. Roles and responsibilities of councillors, and their difference to those of council employees, are clarified and observed.

1.2. Protocols that meet council and legislative requirements are observed.

1.3. Limitations on council and councillors' jurisdiction are specified and clarified.

2. Conduct productive meetings in line with compliance requirements

2.1. Meeting procedures are followed and proceedings are recorded clearly.

2.2. Decision making is undertaken in accordance with agreed and accepted practices.

2.3. Situations that may result in conflicts of interest are identified.

2.4. Strategies to avoid conflicts of interest are implemented.

2.5. The requirement to act in accordance with legislation and the binding nature of council decisions are identified and observed.

2.6. Public communication is adapted to accommodate language and cultural differences.

3. Uphold council's legislative responsibilities

3.1. External influences are identified and standards are complied with.

3.2. Issues of potential or apparent conflict with other bodies are identified and investigated.

3.3. Procedures to support and action council decisions are adopted through delegation to council's administrative and specialist employees.

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

Required Skills

decision making

problem solving

conflict resolution

communication

networking

leadership and management

presentation and public speaking

Required Knowledge

state or territory legislation affecting councils and influencing bodies

councillor, executive, administrative and specialist roles within council structure

policies and protocols governing effective legal and ethical operation of council.

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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

Review and analysis of issues through understanding council's policies, decision-making processes and legislative responsibilities.

Capacity to manage the separation of responsibilities between councillors and employed staff.

Capacity to demonstrate respect for and represent the diversity of people's ethnic background, culture, customs, language and communication styles.

Context of assessment

In the workplace or a simulated work environment, possibly supported by classroom delivery, including remote or online.

Assessment may encompass multiple elements in the workplace and utilise:

role-plays

oral questioning

case studies

short exercises, including multiple choice, practical demonstrations and group activities in simulated environments.

It is anticipated that a complete assessment would involve observation of performance in the role of councillor.

Relationship to other units(prerequisite or co-requisite units)

Prerequisite units: nil.

Co-requisite units: nil.

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 will need to be gathered over time across a range of variables.

Resource implications

Access to a workplace, simulated environment or case studies including:

legislation and standards of practice

protocols, policies and procedures

meetings and committee proceedings

representative issues and incidents reflecting council responsibilities.

Assessment and training may need to be conducted out of standard business hours.

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.

Councillor's roles and responsibilities may include:

limitations and the application of executive powers

extent of administrative and specialist staff responsibilities

external, legislative and community influences on council and their impact on councillors

conflicts of interest

protocols outlining expected councillor behaviour.

Public communication may include:

roles of committees

establishment of policies and precedents

appropriate language and forms of address.

External influences may include:

ethical standards bodies

access and equity

anti-discrimination legislation and practices

audit office requirements and practices, including internal and external audit issues

relevant employment and industrial relations legislation

public safety, risk management and emergency response

electoral propriety

enabling legislation.

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Unit Sector

General Elective

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This unit contains employability skills.