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. Gather and monitor data to determine the existence, location, severity and nature of pollution

1.1. Existing data is identified and collated in a comprehensive manner.

1.2. Additional data is obtained to ensure comprehensive data is available for analysis.

2. Identify and assess the effectiveness of options for reducing pollution, from relevant sources

2.1. Consultation with the community and relevant authorities is undertaken to develop appropriate options and levels of performance.

2.2. Practical and appropriate strategies to minimise pollution are identified and assessed for effectiveness.

2.3. Trialling and sampling techniques are implemented in a controlled manner and results are assessed against projected performance levels.

2.4. Strategies are prioritised for implementation based on local, regional and other relevant authority criteria .

3. Develop program to reduce pollution

3.1. Prioritised methods are identified based on identified strategies.

3.2. Resources are identified within budget cycle.

3.3. Effectiveness criteria are identified based on program targets, community expectations and resource constraints .

3.4. Consultation on the draft program is carried out with stakeholders .

3.5. Feedback is evaluated and conflicting feedback is identified and incorporated into program plan as appropriate to targets, relevant policy, community expectations, legislation and resources.

4. Implement program to minimise environmental pollution

4.1. Actions are prioritised to achieve most effective and efficient results.

4.2. Resources are allocated to match priorities.

4.3. Responsible parties are identified that have the capacity and compatibility to carry out actions.

4.4. Time lines and schedules are established that enable strategy targets to be met within required time frame.

5. Monitor and review the effectiveness of the program

5.1. Regular data is collected and analysed to provide accurate measures of performance.

5.2. Comparisons are made with strategy objectives to assess effectiveness.

5.3. Changes to implemented strategy are made as required in a timely manner to ensure outcomes are achieved.

5.4. Information obtained during monitoring and review is used to develop new strategies that are based on accumulated knowledge and experience.

Hidden text

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

Required Skills

gathering data

analytical

budgeting

program planning, implementation and review

evaluation processes

presenting

consulting with stakeholders and a diverse community.

Required Knowledge

environmental issues

impacts of pollution on the environment

state of the environment reports

relevant legislation

available resources

resource usage minimisation

community needs and expectations

regulations, standards and policies

training requirements

community information.

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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

Comprehensive data is collected and analysed.

Requirements of relevant policies and legislation are addressed.

Trialling and sampling techniques are identified and implemented.

Monitoring and review reports are timely, accurate and conducted in an objective manner.

Community information is disseminated.

Stakeholder input is sought.

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:

real or simulated data on pollution for analysis

appropriate facilities for trialling and sampling

real or simulated process for conducting community consultations

real or simulated budget

relevant technical reports.

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.

Strategy assessment may include:

cost

proven effectiveness

program targets

community expectations.

Types of constraints may include:

budget

resources

time lines

knowledge

available data.

Stakeholders may include:

council

community

government

government agencies

interest groups

industry

business

community experts.

Responsible parties may include:

existing staff

project staff

consultants

government agencies

voluntary regional organisations of councils

community experts

volunteers.

Data may include:

surveys

questionnaires

references

stakeholder input

existing reports and programs

state of the environment reports

council management and corporate plans.

Criteria to prioritise issues and identify targets may include:

scientific data

seriousness of issue

likelihood of action making a difference

cost effectiveness

community expectations

legislation

time frames

budgets constraints.

Resources may include:

funding from outside sources

use of community resources

resources from other organisations, including councils in the region.

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Unit Sector

Planning Units

Hidden text

This unit contains employability skills.