Clarence Valley Council has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and continuous improvement, noting the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) Annual Report 2025–2026 and endorsing the appointment of a new internal audit service provider at its June Ordinary Council meeting.
Council endorsed the appointment of Grant Thornton as its Internal Audit Service Provider for the next two years and formally noted the ARIC Annual Report, which outlines the committee's work from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026.
Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith said the independent oversight provided by the ARIC plays a vital role in ensuring Council remains accountable to the community and continues to improve its services, systems and decision-making processes.
"The Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee provides independent advice that helps Council strengthen its governance, manage risk effectively and maintain the confidence of our community," Mayor Smith said.
"Good governance underpins every service Council delivers, every project we undertake and every decision we make on behalf of our community."
The ARIC is an independent advisory committee that assists Council and the General Manager by reviewing governance, risk management, internal controls, compliance and performance improvement activities.
The committee also oversees Council's internal audit program, which provides independent assurance that Council is operating effectively, efficiently and in accordance with legislative requirements.
During 2025–2026, the Committee supported Council's commitment to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement through independent oversight of governance, compliance, and internal audits.
The Committee's 2025-2026 Annual Report noted three completed internal audits being the Native Title Audit, the Customer Engagement and Complaints Management Audit and the Development Applications Audit.
Additional internal reviews undertaken included the Internal Controls Framework, Legislative Compliance Process, Service Reviews, Continuous Improvement Pathway – self-assessment audits (bridges, incidents, trees) and the Strategic Risk Register / Risk Appetite Statement.
"Internal audits are an important tool for identifying opportunities to improve how Council operates," Mayor Smith said.
"They provide objective assessments of our systems and processes, helping us ensure public resources are being managed responsibly and that we continue to deliver value for our community."
Mayor Smith thanked the independent committee members for their expertise and contribution.
"The committee members bring valuable skills and experience that help Council maintain high standards of governance and accountability," Mayor Smith said.
"Their independent advice supports better decision-making, strengthens public trust and helps ensure we continue delivering services that meet the needs of our community."
Council's ARIC Annual Report 2025–2026 is available on Council's website.
