Governance, Audit, Policy framework and assurance reviews

Enhancing Assurance, Governance and Decision-Making at SafeWork

SafeWork South Australia (SafeWork SA) engaged Grosvenor to enhance its assurance, governance and audit frameworks, aiming to improve assurance and build capability in governance and evidence-based decision-making.

Governance Framework Review

Grosvenor’s review identified the need for a more user-friendly governance framework. Recommendations included simplifying language, improving document layout, and separating detailed information into related documents. Additionally, Grosvenor emphasised the importance of aligning the framework with best practices to ensure it supports the embedding of good governance across the organisation.

Audit Framework Review

The audit framework was found to be too narrow in scope. Grosvenor recommended expanding audit types, improving documentation, and incorporating interactive methods like interviews and sampling. These changes aimed to align SafeWork SA’s audit activities with best practices and provide robust assurance.

Assurance Review

Grosvenor’s review of the Assurance Framework emphasised clear performance measures, robust risk management, and effective governance structures. These insights informed improvements in SafeWork assurance activities. These insights informed improvements in SafeWork SA’s assurance activities, ensuring they are proactive and aligned with organizational objectives.

Policy Framework Review

The policy framework review suggested improvements in format, language, and presentation of policies. Recommendations included using plain English and visual aids for complex information. Grosvenor’s approach ensured that policies were accessible and aligned with best practices, and that take-up of, and compliance with policies was optimised.

Implementation Approach

Grosvenor developed a detailed implementation approach to transition to a new policy framework, prioritising high-risk documents and emphasizing stakeholder engagement and communication. This structured approach ensured a smooth and efficient transition of over 300 controlled documents.

Governance Risk Audit and Assurance Committee Review

The review of the Committee included a full assessment of the extent to which the Committee was discharging its duties under the Charter, and the capability and experience of Committee members. Recommendations were made about expanding its responsibilities, enhancing independence, and improving diversity to increase effectiveness. Grosvenor’s recommendations aimed to strengthen the committee’s oversight and governance capabilities.

Transition Plan

Grosvenor outlined a structured approach to updating controlled documents, with detailed timelines and risk mitigation measures. The transition plan categorised documents based on their risk profile and drafting complexity, ensuring that high-risk documents were prioritised.

Governance Coaching and Mentoring

Grosvenor provided coaching sessions focused on governance and document control practices, enhancing staff capabilities through targeted training and resources. The sessions included identifying pain points, refining document control practices, and delivering targeted coaching to enhance staff capabilities.

Building Capability

Grosvenor implemented training programs, developed user-friendly documents, and established clear performance measures to foster a culture of continuous improvement and informed decision-making. These initiatives aimed to create a culture of continuous improvement within SafeWork.

Through these comprehensive reviews and improvements, Grosvenor has significantly strengthened SafeWork’s assurance, governance and evidence-based decision-making capabilities, ensuring better workplace safety and regulatory compliance.

Want to know more about assurance, governance or capability uplift in your program or organisation? Reach out to our Governance and Assurance Expert – Charitee Davies