ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1 Provide rates policy options

1.1 A range of policy options is presented that clearly demonstrates impact of policy on property owners and compliance with permissible income limitations.

1.2 Data is provided as required for submissions to the minister to vary permissible income limitations within allowable parameters.

2 Create and review rating structures within council and statutory requirements

2.1 Council's requirements for rating structure options are confirmed.

2.2 The rating structures presented meet state government requirements in regard to income limitations and legal structure and are consistent with council policies.

2.3 Options for rates in the dollar and total valuation information are provided in required format within specified time frames.

2.4 Options are presented in a way that clarifies the financial impact on property owners.

2.5 Rating structures are reviewed following general revaluations.

3 Provide reports on rebates and exemptions as required

3.1 Reports and recommendations are provided in line with council and statutory requirements.

3.2 Recommendations are supported by appropriate documentation to allow council to make fair decisions in line with policy.

3.3 Suggestions for improvements to council rates policies within the discretionary provisions of the act are provided to ensure determinations are fair and equal.

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

Required Skills

writing reports and case studies

providing verbal reports to management or council

interpreting relevant sections of local government legislation

preparing spreadsheets and models

Required Knowledge

council policies and procedures relating to rating

detailed knowledge of mandatory, discretionary and prohibitory provisions of the relevant sections of state or territory local government legislation

basic accounting principles

computer software including spreadsheets and databases

general ledger systems

appreciation of social impact of rating policies

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

Provision of information in line with statutory and council requirements.

Clear and concise recommendations backed up by comprehensive supporting documentation where necessary.

Context of assessment

On the job or in a simulated work 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 will need to be gathered over time across a range of variables.

Resource implications

Access to a workplace or simulated case study that provides the following resources:

copies of council policies relating to rating procedures and processes

copies of relevant sections of state or territory legislation

computer software, including spreadsheets and databases

materials on accounting principles

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.

Presentation of options may include:

graphical

maps

Impact of policy may include:

social

financial

Permissible income limitations may include:

special rates

increase in charges for specific projects

increase in total notional income

increase in minimum rates

Rating structure options may include:

wholly ad valorem rates versus minimum rates versus base amounts

optional pensioner rebates

varying ad valorem rates (rates in the dollar)

adjusting relativity levels (level of income received from each category and subcategory)

introducing, ceasing or adjusting voluntary pensioner rebates

introducing or ceasing discounts and allowances

Rates in the dollar may include:

different values for ordinary rates including subcategorisation

minimum or base amount payable

special rates and concessions

waste, domestic waste, water, sewerage rates and charges

discounts and allowances

Rating reports may include:

verbal

written

case studies

spreadsheets relating to rates in the dollar options

abandonments

pensioner rebates

Documentation may include:

photographs

procedures carried out

supporting documentation from customers

council records

legal precedents