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Our Risk Response

Risk awareness and management is incorporated into the Department's standard planning and management practices. In terms of Managing for Outcomes, we are particularly focused on the risks related to our ability to contribute to the Outcomes detailed in our Outcome Framework. These risks, centered on the risks inherent in not closing our capability gaps, are outlined in the following table, along with the response we will use to minimise each risk.

Our Risk Response
Capability Focus Risk Response
Open and transparent, flexible, easy-to-understand organisational management systems that are supportive of the achievement of the organisational goals Without effective and efficient management systems that support the achievement of our organisational goals we risk unproductive and unfocused use of staff time. We will review and revise as appropriate our management systems to ensure they are effective, efficient and supportive of our management goals.

In the first instance we will implement a new remuneration and performance management system (as defined in the previous section) and develop effective recruitment strategies.
Increasing knowledge and understanding of the building and housing sector and increasing technical knowledge capabilities, including providing staff with access to knowledge management systems that will provide better data collection and sharing, provide meaningful information and ensure we have informed management decision-making and effective strategic planning Lack of industry and technical knowledge impairs our ability to make informed decisions, undertake effective strategic planning and promote evidence-based policy, programmes and approaches. We will use our updated recruitment strategies to recruit staff who have appropriate industry and technical knowledge. In addition, we will look to further develop these skill sets in existing staff as part of our training and development commitment.

During 2005/06 we will also commence an initiative aimed at reviewing and upgrading our knowledge management systems.
Management and leadership capabilities If we do not strengthen our management and leadership capabilities across the Department, we run the risk of failing to build a successful, integrated organisation, which will impede our ability to deliver on the Outcome Framework. A programme to recruit permanent staff is under way. In the short term we will continue to secure appropriately qualified contract staff to fill key vacancies.

We will implement an active training and development programme for staff as part of the new performance management system. We will also begin work on planning to ensure future key resourcing needs are met.
Research, analytical and policy capabilities If our research, analytical and policy capabilities are inadequate we will face difficulties developing sound, evidence-based advice to government and putting in place relevant policies and programmes at an operational level. Our recruitment strategies will target people with appropriate capabilities and/or potential. We will look to further develop the skills of existing staff as part of our training and development commitment.

Specific resource has been allocated to identify the Department's future data needs and to undertake data collection, research and quantitative analytical work.