This unit supports the attainment of skills and knowledge required for competent workplace performance in councils of all sizes. Knowledge of the legislation and regulations within which councils must operate is essential. The unique nature of councils, as a tier of government directed by elected members and reflecting the needs of local communities, must be appropriately reflected.

Prerequisite Unit/s

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Maintain current knowledge of relevant legislation and common law

1.1. Sources of information are identified and accessed.

1.2. Internal council networks are maintained to ensure appropriate internal personnel are advised of changes to employment legislation.

2. Interpret legislation and advise on appropriate action

2.1. Implications to council of legislation are correctly interpreted.

2.2. Discussions are held with relevant managers and employees to ensure understanding of legislation.

2.3. Agreement is reached within the council to ensure consistency in interpretation and application of legislation.

2.4. Legal opinion is sought for clarification, where necessary.

3. Monitor council systems to ensure compliance

3.1. Actions based on procedures are examined to ensure compliance.

3.2. Required changes to procedures are identified.

3.3. Relevant people and departments are consulted about required changes.

3.4. Appropriate training is undertaken.

Hidden text

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

Required Skills

research

interpreting legislation

preparing reports

filing and managing information

effective conduct of meetings

interviewing and questioning

assessing options

identifying changes and their causes.

Required Knowledge

acts:

federal and state industrial relations

anti-discrimination

welfare

OHS

workers compensation and rehabilitation

public safety

common law of employment principles

record-handling procedures.

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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

Risk management principles are included in all human resources policies and procedures.

Extensive range of sources of information is accessed.

Legislation is appropriately interpreted and disseminated.

Relevant training is provided.

Procedures are monitored and amended as necessary.

Context of assessment

On the job or in a simulated work environment.

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 or case study that provides the following resources:

copies of relevant legislation

council policies and procedures specifically including industrial relations legislation (state and federal), OHS legislation, workers rehabilitation and compensation legislation, equal employment opportunity legislation (state and federal) and local government acts

personnel records and computer systems

a real or simulated consultation process.

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 include:

federal and state legislation

local government by-laws and awards

acts:

workers compensation and common law of employment principles

enterprise agreements.

federal and state industrial relations

local government

anti-discrimination

welfare

occupational health and safety (OHS)

Sources of information may include:

professional human resources associations

local government associations

conferences and seminars

newsletters

consultants.

Internal council networks may include:

senior management

line management and team leaders

written and verbal communication networks

human resources strategic plan

council corporate plan.

Risk management may include:

cost/benefits of actions before decisions are made

methods of minimising negative effects of decisions

developing standard procedures to minimise risk

promoting and encouraging diversity in the workplace

competition policy insurance.

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Unit Sector

Administration Units

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This unit contains employability skills.