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. Identify the principles and processes of ESD

1.1. Research is undertaken to identify the origins of ecologically sustainable development.

1.2. Research is undertaken to identify developments since the 1992 Rio Earth Summit at international, national, state and local levels.

1.3. Agenda 21 is analysed to identify the underlying principles and processes for ESD.

1.4. Key issues in the principles and processes of ESD are determined.

2. Identify how ESD can be incorporated into the organisation's decision-making processes

2.1. Research is undertaken on council's existing policies, protocols and decision-making processes and assessed against the principles and processes contained in Agenda 21, existing state and federal legislation, industry standards and council and community requirements and expectations.

2.2. Research is undertaken to identify any frameworks or best practice approaches developed by other councils or state and federal government agencies.

2.3. Research is undertaken to identify case studies of implementation of ESD by governments and/or councils.

2.4. Research outcomes are analysed for best practice approaches.

2.5. Existing council decisions are categorised according to their strategic, corporate or operational impact.

2.6. Social, economic, environmental and cultural implications of decisions are identified at each level.

3. Develop ESD indicators

3.1. The community is consulted to determine their views and values on sustainability and to identify appropriate targets and strategies for sustainable development.

3.2. Suggestions and ideas in relation to ESD are sought from work teams.

3.3. Expert opinion and advice are sought on ways council can apply the principles and processes of ESD to its decision making, especially in relation to the natural and built environment.

3.4. Relevant state and federal agencies are consulted on their policy position in relation to ESD.

3.5. A framework for measuring and monitoring council commitment to integrated decision making is established.

3.6. Appropriate qualitative and quantitative indicators are developed for social, economic and environmental factors.

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

Required Skills

policy development

planning

consultation

collaboration

negotiation

presentation

data collection and analysis

evaluation

communication.

Required Knowledge

relevant legislation from all levels of government that supports the achievement of the objectives and principles of sustainability

knowledge of best practice approaches

relevant knowledge of economic, social, environmental and cultural issues

ESD principles

relevant environmental systems and procedures

council policies and protocols

council structures and services

community needs and expectations.

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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

The demonstrated ability to:

research and analyse information on the application of ESD principles and processes

identify how ESD can be incorporated into council's decision-making processes

develop appropriate ESD indicators for social, economic, environmental and cultural factors.

Context of assessment

Competency is demonstrated by performance of all stated criteria, with particular attention to the critical aspects of evidence and the knowledge and skills elaborated in the Evidence Guide, and within the scope of the Range Statement.

Assessment must take account of the endorsed Assessment Guidelines in the Local Government Training Package.

Assessment of performance requirements in this unit should be undertaken in an actual workplace or simulated environment.

Assessment should reinforce the integration of the key competencies for the particular AQF level. Refer to the key competency levels at the end of this unit.

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

To enable holistic assessment this unit may be assessed with other units that form part of the job role.

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 should be collected over a set period of time that is sufficient to include dealings with an appropriate range and variety of situations.

Resource implications

The learner and trainer should have access to appropriate documentation and resources normally used in the workplace.

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.

Research may include:

Internet information

a range of reports and other documents, including state of environment reports

new technology developments related to sustainability

results of monitoring and research.

Ecologically sustainable development may include:

economic factors

social factors

environmental factors

cultural factors.

Assessed may include:

indicators

audits

surveys.

Consultation may include:

personal contact

surveys

public meetings

stakeholder meetings or group discussions

submissions

professional advice.

Framework may include:

mechanisms for cooperation and collaboration between stakeholders

processes for participation and community input

indicators for monitoring and evaluating the effects of development against a range of economic, social, environmental and cultural criteria agreed by the local community.

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Unit Sector

Land Management

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This unit contains employability skills.