Annual Report 2004-05

Corporate Governance

Defence Governance Framework

In 2004-05, Defence published its new governance framework. This framework, based on the Australian National Audit Office's 'house of governance' model, demonstrates the key organisational, risk and process elements of good public sector governance. The framework has embedded within it a number of key accountability documents and measures, including the Ministerial Directive, Group Head and Service Chief charters, organisational performance agreements and guidance on inter-agency consultation.

In addition, at the request of the Defence Committee, the Chief of Staff Australian Defence Headquarters undertook a review of Defence governance that focused on streamlining enterprise management and reporting processes and standardising key governance documentation and activities.

Initial recommendations from this review have been implemented and further recommendations will be considered in 2005-06.

Senior Committees

The senior Defence committees are key elements in Defence's governance framework. All senior Defence committees continue to be advisory with the chair exercising executive authority. There were eight senior Defence committees in 2004-05, as well as the Financial Statements Project Board and the Defence Procurement Advisory Board. Their roles and membership and attendance of committee meetings are explained on the following pages.

Chart 1.4 Senior Defence Committees Structure