annual report 2013 / 2014€¦ · in november 2013, resource gv welcomed a milestone announcement...

ANNUAL REPORT

2013 / 2014

Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group

Trading as

FOR THE REPORTING PERIOD ENDING 31 July 2014

Member Councils

Campaspe Shire Council

City of Greater Shepparton

Moira Shire Council

Strathbogie Shire Council

Mitchell Shire Council

Murrindindi Shire Council

Resource GV Staff:

Nicholas Nagle Executive Officer

Brad Montgomery Regional Education Officer

Tracy Taylor Senior Project Officer

© State of Victoria, Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group 2014. This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the

Copyright Act 1968.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Item Page No

1. REPORTS ................................................................................................................................................... 4 1.1 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE ............................................................................................................................ 4 1.2 EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT ............................................................................................................. 5 2.1 OBJECTIVES, FUNCTIONS, POWERS AND DUTIES ............................................................................... 9 2.2 MISSION / VISION / VALUES ................................................................................................................... 10 2.3 OBJECTIVES AND PROGRAM AREAS ................................................................................................... 10 2.4 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT REPORT / STATUTORY PLANNING PROVISIONS ...................... 11 2.5 NATURE AND RANGE OF SERVICES PROVISION ................................................................................ 11 3. BOARD MEMBERSHIP/COMMITTEES/ MEETING ATTENDANCE ......................................................... 12 3.1 DIRECTORS’ ROLE .................................................................................................................................. 12 3.2 BOARD MEMBERSHIP ............................................................................................................................. 12 3.3 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE ............................................................................................................ 15 3.4 BOARD MEETINGS .................................................................................................................................. 16 3.5 FINANCE AND AUDIT COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP ............................................................................... 17 3.6 TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE..................................................................................................... 19 3.7 GOULBURN BROKEN GREENHOUSE ALLIANCE (GBGA) – SPECIAL COMMITTEE ........................ 21 4. REPORT OF RESOURCE GV OPERATIONS .......................................................................................... 25 4.1 MANAGEMENT TEAM .............................................................................................................................. 25 4.2 RESOURCE GV STRATEGIC DIRECTION AND AUTHORITY DEVELOPMENT .................................... 26 4.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN ........................................................ 27 4.4 OPERATIONAL OBJECTIVES AND PERFORMANCE AGAINST OBJECTIVES ..................................... 29 4.5 KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS ........................................................................................................ 35 4.6 THE FUTURE ............................................................................................................................................ 39 5. STATEMENT OF LEGISLATIVE COMPLIANCE ....................................................................................... 39 5.1 AVAILABILITY OF OTHER INFORMATION .............................................................................................. 39 5.2 STATEMENT OF WORKPLACE DATA ..................................................................................................... 40 5.3 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY (OH&S) ........................................................................................ 41 5.4 APPLICATION AND OPERATION OF FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 ................................... 41 5.5 COMPLIANCE WITH BUILDING & MAINTENANCE PROVISIONS OF THE BUILDING ACT 1993 ........ 41 5.6 NATIONAL COMPETITION POLICY ......................................................................................................... 41 5.7 CULTURAL DIVERSITY- AGED, YOUTH, KOORIES, NESB ................................................................... 42 5.8 PRIVACY ACT ........................................................................................................................................... 42 5.9 PROTECTED DISCLOSURES ACT 2012 ................................................................................................. 42 5.10 OFFICE BASED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ........................................................................................ 44 5.11 SUBSEQUENT EVENTS ........................................................................................................................... 44 5.12 MAJOR CHANGES OR FACTORS AFFECTING PERFORMANCE ......................................................... 44 5.13 VICTORIAN INDUSTRY PARTICIPATION POLICY DISCLOSURES ....................................................... 44 5.14 DISCLOSURE INDEX ............................................................................................................................... 45 6. FINANCIALS .............................................................................................................................................. 47 6.1 FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY ......................................................................................................... 47 6.2 USE OF LANDFILL LEVY MONIES .......................................................................................................... 47 6.3 SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN FINANCIAL POSITION DURING THE REPORTING PERIOD ................... 48 6.4 FINANCIAL AUDITING .............................................................................................................................. 48 6.5 DECLARATION UNDER DIRECTION 9.1.3(IV) OF THE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT ACT 1994 .......... 48 6.6 BUDGET PORTFOLIO OUTCOMES ........................................................................................................ 48 6.7 CONSULTANCIES GREATER THAN $10,000 ......................................................................................... 48 6.9 DISCLOSURE OF MAJOR CONTRACTS ................................................................................................. 49 6.10 COMPLIANCE WITH DATAVIC ACCESS POLICY ................................................................................... 49 6.11 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS ........................................................................................................ 49 6.12 STATEMENT BY WASTE MANAGEMENT GROUP DIRECTORS ........................................................... 51 6.13 FINANCIAL REPORT 2013 / 2014 ............................................................................................................ 52 6.14 INDEPENDENT AUDIT REPORT ............................................................................................................. 53

1. REPORTS

1.1 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

In July 2013, the Victorian Government publicly accepted the majority of the recommendations of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Waste and Resource Recovery Governance Reform. These included replacing the existing thirteen waste management groups, including the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group, with seven new waste and resource recovery groups. Under these reforms, the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group was dissolved by Ministerial Order on 31 July 2014. On 1 August 2014, all staff were transferred to the Goulburn Valley Waste and Resource Recovery Group, together with all outstanding long service leave, annual leave and personal/carer's leave entitlements. All the real and personal property owned by the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group, including cash in bank accounts and office lease arrangements, will be transferred by Ministerial Order to the Goulburn Valley Waste and Resource Recovery Group upon this dissolution. Liabilities for all amounts due and owing for the provision of goods and services to the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group will also be transferred by Ministerial Order to the Goulburn Valley Waste and Resource Recovery Group. Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group has been working closely with the Department of Environment and Primary Industries to give effect to this transition process during 2013-14. This has been a major area of our focus during this period, which should be taken into account when assessing our achievements and programs for 2013-14. This will hence be the final annual report of the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group. I would like to acknowledge my fellow Directors for the interest that they have shown in waste management and resource recovery, and I urge member councils to maintain and increase their interest and enthusiasm for waste reduction into the future. Our staff have displayed flexibility and commitment throughout a demanding year and have enabled continued progress on an operations front, whilst still being able to actively participate in, and be drivers of, effective reforms. Lastly, I would like to recognise the support and advice of the Department of Environment and Primary Industries in ably assisting our organisation through reforms. I feel that the Group has prepared well for the transition phase and has achieved a lot in this period. Greg Toll Chairperson, Resource GV

1.2 EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT

The 2013-14 reporting period was one to remember for all involved with Resource GV. A thirteen month financial year and the significant planning and preparations involved with the Regional Waste Management Group reform agenda have necessitated a concerted effort to ensure an orderly transition to new governance and structural arrangements would be possible. I thank our Board members for their support and guidance, particularly to Chairman Greg Toll for his considerable additional efforts in consultation with DEPI during the period. There has been a highly co-operative ethic demonstrated within the portfolio to support relevant aspects of Ministerial Advisory Committee recommendations and at the same time we have focussed in on key priority program areas:

1. Support and development for kerbside services 2. Infrastructure assessment and options analysis

In November 2013, Resource GV welcomed a milestone announcement of $550,000 in Victorian Government funding support for organics recovery. The funding over three years is helping to support Resource GV to deliver education and infrastructure to over 41,500 households, recovering over 7,000 tonnes annually of organic waste from landfill. Complimenting this significant announcement, the learnings from important regional research has assisted in building an evidence base from which to base our Waste and Resource Recovery Implementation Plan. These include reports covering:

Biological risks associated with increased kerbside organics diversion

Issues, barriers and opportunities for recycled organics in the Resource GV Region

Also in support of kerbside organics collection and processing has been our utilisation of Metropolitan Waste Management Group education Initiative ‘Back to Earth’. Tailoring the messaging and collateral in time to support member council service introduction has been work that has spanned the full 13 months of the reporting period. An example of the way that Resource GV has played its role is the input that we have had into Sustainability Victoria’s strategy development for organics and state-wide education framework. Valuable data on the environmental attitudes and behaviours Goulburn of Valley residents was gained in the period allowing the Group to obtain rich data to inform future planning. An example of this is that approximately three-quarters (75%) of residents surveyed reported that their recycling bin is either full (56%) or overflowing (19%) on collection day. An option for families to ‘opt in’ to a larger capacity bin is already being implemented through kerbside collection contracts as a mechanism to boost recovery of kerbside materials. On an infrastructure front we undertook detailed assessments Goulburn Valley Resource Recovery Centres against the relevant best practice guidelines. This is a key piece of work that will be influential for years to come. This research was complimented by our other achievements in the infrastructure area.

Participating into the Review of Transfer Stations and Resource Recovery Centres in Rural and Regional Victoria (Sustainability Victoria).

Assisting applications for funding under the Rural and Regional Transfer Station Upgrade Fund

Undertaking Mitchell Shire Landfill Review to investigate expansion potential alluded to in State-wide Waste and Resource Recovery Infrastructure Plan

Researching Strategy Options for Murrindindi Shire Council Organic Waste Collection and Processing

The continuation of some promising trends is further underscoring the success of efforts to support kerbside recycling and organics diversion. As shown in figure 1, the decoupling of the generation of municipal solid waste from a growth in services.

Figure 1: Residual waste /service growth comparison

Even more significant is the update to the costs for provision of kerbside services to household shown below on a per household and per tonne basis. As with other metrics taken from the Local Government Data Survey in this report, the most recently published data has been utilised and despite being a lagging indicator, Figures 2 and 3 below do clearly show the Goulburn Valley region has reported increasingly favourable service costs for organics and recycling in comparison to residual waste.

Figure 2: Service cost per household

Figure 3: Service cost per tonne

On this front and in other performance measures outlined in section 4.5 of this report, Resource GV is well placed to be a leader within the Waste and Resource Recovery Planning framework and to realise opportunities as they arise. I would like to thank all of our stakeholders, particularly our member councils and portfolio partners for the assistance throughout this important year. Since the formation of the Group in 1997, our achievements have only been possible through such committed support.

Nicholas Nagle Executive Officer

Fire emergencies Just as it has been required to do in the previous four years, the region has again been required to respond to the aftermath of a natural disaster. Both the Moira and Mitchell Shires again bore the brunt of fire emergencies with the Victorian Government extending emergency financial help (including a temporary landfill levy waiver) for property owners in the Moira and Mitchell shires and the City of Greater Shepparton Three separate fires, which later combined, burnt more than 12,000 hectares in the Wunghnu, Numurkah and Bunbartha areas on February 9 2014. This incident destroyed three houses and damaged between 250 and 300 properties. The Mickleham-Wallan fires in February 2014 in the South and West of Mitchell Shire. A sizeable area of mainly rural land between Mitchell and Macedon Ranges was affected by this fast moving grass fire. Approximately 5 houses in Mitchell Shire were destroyed. A significant number of stock, fencing and farm sheds were also destroyed. Whilst landfill waste volumes of these events were modest at approximately 80 tonne of municipal solid waste and 440 tonne of demolition waste, pointing to significant resource recovery efforts in the field particular for steel, bricks etc. Acknowledgement has been made of the excellent efforts local waste contractors who provided additional services throughout the recovery phase. Deferred a kerbside waste collection days, such as were necessary in Kilmore township, and some heavily impacted roads to the west of Wallan township are examples of the management response required, along with dedicated transfer station bins, disposal coupons and arrangement of demolition waste logistics.

Photo 1: A house burns down on Wallan Heights Road, Wallan on Monday. Source: News Limited

Photo 2: Destroyed home and property near Kilmore. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: News Limited

Photo 3: Damaged fences at Kilmore Source: The Australian.

Photo 4: An burnt all-terrain vehicle at Wunghnu Source: ABC Rural

http://www.google.com.au/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&docid=2_KImioKBBZ8dM&tbnid=_j3jJoIzIb-_lM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/new-pictures-fires-burn-across-victoria-after-the-worst-day-since-black-saturday/story-fnl2cq7o-1226821877702&ei=tVrgU-eLKcTuoATDpYK4CA&bvm=bv.72197243,d.dGc&psig=AFQjCNE-XARlB8tRHrMQbkd2q26SXb4w1w&ust=1407298611096138

http://www.google.com.au/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&docid=amwHsi3IjevM_M&tbnid=JT-kdRZASQzfBM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.theaustralian.com.au%2Fnews%2Fnation%2Fmassive-victoria-fire-near-wallan-and-kilmore-expected-to-grow%2Fstory-e6frg6nf-1226823721655&ei=-1zgU6T8EMG7oQTrlIDwBw&bvm=bv.72197243,d.dGc&psig=AFQjCNE-XARlB8tRHrMQbkd2q26SXb4w1w&ust=1407298611096138

2. MANNER OF ESTABLISHMENT AND RELEVANT MINISTERS

1. The Governor in Council (GiC) (on the Minister’s recommendation) declares Goulburn Valley as a waste management region under section 50E(1) of the Environment Protection Act 1970

2. The six member councils in the Goulburn Valley region submitted a draft constitution to the Minister for approval under section 50F(1)(a)

3. The Minister approved the constitution under section 50F(1)(b), subject to any additional legislative requirements

4. GiC, on the Minister’s recommendation, declared the creation of the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group. This occurred on 14 October 1997

During the reporting period 1 July 2013 to 31 July 2014 the Group was accountable to the Hon Ryan Smith, MP, Minister for Environment and Climate Change. 2.1 OBJECTIVES, FUNCTIONS, POWERS AND DUTIES In partnership with its members municipalities Resource GV develops regional plans to give effect to state-wide policies, strategies and programs at a local level. The Group aims to achieve the ultimate goal of waste reduction through a variety of a co-ordinated regional approach community based and co-operative methods. By working with the community and allied agencies to promote waste and litter minimisation, the Resource GV aims to restore, enhance, protect and maintain the ecosystem of the Region. Resource GV's members play a key role in the provision of infrastructure and community programs, and to implement regional plans focused on municipal waste management, developed by the group. In their municipal waste planning and management role, Resource GV's members add value to regional initiatives through contracting, service delivery, and provision of infrastructure and facilities. They also assist Resource GV to deliver education programs through events, schools, and organisations in local communities. Resource GVs functions, according to section 50H of the Environment Protection Act 1970, are to:

(a) To plan for the management of municipal waste in its region, working in partnership with the councils in its region; and

(b) To co-ordinate the activities of its members in its region to give effect in its region to State policies, strategies and programs relating to waste; and

(c) To facilitate and foster best practices in waste management. In carrying out its functions a regional waste management group is:

(1)(a) To plan for municipal waste management in its region including: (i) Preparing and keeping up to date a regional waste management plan; (ii) Implementing and promoting the plan; (iii) Setting performance targets for municipal waste reduction programs;

developing, implementing, supporting and promoting municipal waste reduction and recycling programs;

(1)(b) To co-ordinate the waste management activities of its members including: (i) Introducing measures that lead to conformity of standards for Waste

reduction, waste management and litter prevention and control between its members;

(ii) Investigating and advising on landfill disposal costs and charges in the region;

(iii) Encouraging the training of staff involved in municipal waste management; (1)(c) To promote, commission and undertake research into waste management; (1)(d) To advise its members on best practices in municipal waste management; (1)(e) To promote improved waste management technologies; (1)(f) To promote and co-ordinate relevant community education in its region; (1)(g) To mediate disputes between its members.

(2) A regional waste management group may do anything that is necessary or

convenient to enable it to perform its functions. 2.2 MISSION / VISION / VALUES Through a comprehensive business planning process, commencing in April 2012, Resource GV adopted a vision, mission and set of values that were incorporated into its objectives and program areas for 2013-14.

OUR VISION

TO BE A REGIONAL COMMUNITY WHICH SEEKS TO MINIMISE ITS ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT

OUR MISSION

TO PROVIDE LEADERSHIP, EDUCATION AND STRATEGIC DIRECTION IN THE

MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABLE USE OF RESOURCES WITHIN THE GOULBURN VALLEY REGION

OUR VALUES

WE:

Recognise the role we and allied agencies play in environmental management;

Will work harmoniously together and share resources to achieve our goals;

Will be responsible and equitable in our dealings and communication;

Will provide quality information, education and advice. 2.3 OBJECTIVES AND PROGRAM AREAS Our Strategic priorities from July 2013 to June 2016 are currently to:

Continue promotion of our Regional Group – its identity, its achievements and its goals;

Foster more input into the Groups operations from the community;

Build stronger relationships with all relevant bodies involved in the waste management industry;

Promote the use of information, data and resources between the Group, its member Councils and external bodies;

Partner member Councils in their application of the principles of best practice;

Foster local solutions for local problems;

Ensure adequate resourcing of operations, programs and strategy implementation.

These will be subject to confirmation by the new Goulburn Valley Waste and Resource Recovery board. Priorities will need to be consistent with the new group’s statutory objectives functions and powers. 2.4 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT REPORT / STATUTORY PLANNING

PROVISIONS Resource GV prepares and implements environmental (waste management) plans and reports, as part of its core functions and statutory obligations. In doing so Resource GV works in partnership with other Government Agencies to promote and to maintain the principles of sustainability. Resource GV articulates its long-term strategic position on the environment through the regional waste management plan, which is implemented through the business plan and reported on through this annual report. More specifically, Resource GV operates in partnership with the Environment Protection Authority, Sustainability Victoria and local authorities to implement state policies and strategies, relating to solid waste management and resource efficiency, in a regional and local setting. Resource GV’s primary role in strategic planning relates to working with its Member councils to determine proposed siting of waste facilities. Siting of facilities is locked into the regional waste management planning process, which involves consultation with local government. Ultimately, approval of the plan stands with the Environment Protection Authority. 2.5 NATURE AND RANGE OF SERVICES PROVISION Resource GV develops and applies regional strategies and initiatives in the context of State policy, through the States regional waste management framework under the Environment Protection Act 1970. As such Resource GV plans for municipal waste management at a regional level and facilitates and fosters best practice in waste and litter management within the Goulburn Valley Region, comprising the member municipalities of Moira, Mitchell, Murrindindi, Campaspe, Strathbogie and Greater Shepparton. Stakeholders within this Region are many and varied but included community groups such as Local Area Planning Committees, Landcare networks, trader associations, allied government agencies, and waste contractors and processors

3. BOARD MEMBERSHIP/COMMITTEES/ MEETING ATTENDANCE 3.1 DIRECTORS’ ROLE Board Members are required to operate in the best interests of the Resource GV as a whole rather than in a representative capacity for any stakeholders or customer groups. Though they operate in a voluntary role Resource GV’s directors undertake a number of responsibilities inclusive of: (i) Approving, where appropriate, Group policies and other recommendations

received from the Group, its sub-committees and staff; (ii) Monitoring all Group policies; review and recommending changes to the Groups

internal strategies and policies manual; (iii) Reviewing the Board’s structure, approve changes, and prepare amendments; (iv) Participating in the development of the Group’s Business Plan, Waste

Management Plan, Constitution, Education Strategy and Annual Report; (v) Considering and approving the Group’s Annual Budget; (vi) Approving the hiring and release of the Executive Officer; and, (vii) Assisting in developing and maintaining positive relations among the Board,

committees, staff, stakeholders and the community to enhance the Groups mission.

As members of a State Statutory Agency’s Board, Directors may choose to be remunerated under the Governments Part Time Appointment and Remuneration Guidelines for Members of Government Boards and Advisory Committees. The Board at its Annual General meeting (AGM) on 16 May 2003 determined to pay sitting fees to all Directors and this has continued in accordance with the guidelines. 3.2 BOARD MEMBERSHIP Membership Criteria: One Councillor appointed by each of the six Member Councils as its Director on the Management Committee. Membership of the Management Board Chairman: Member Councillor elected on the vote of Directors. Board Meeting Frequency: Quarterly Voting: One vote per Director

Board members

Director Greg Toll Chairman Campaspe Shire Councillor

Director Wendy Buck Deputy Chairman Moira Shire Councillor

Director Robin Weatherald Strathbogie Shire Councillor

Director Fern Summer Greater Shepparton City Councillor

Director Kevin Mulroney Mitchell Shire Councillor

Director Bernie Magner Murrindindi Shire Councillor

From July 1 2013 until 31 July 2014 the membership of the board was as follows:

Greg Toll (Campaspe)

Wendy Buck (Moira)

Robin Weatherald (Strathbogie)

Kevin Mulroney (Mitchell)

Fern Summer (Greater Shepparton)

Bernie Magner (Murrindindi) The 2013 AGM was held on 7 June 2013. At this meeting the board:

Elected Dir Greg Toll as its Chairman for 2013/14.

Elected Dir Wendy Buck as its Deputy Chairman for 2013/14. An AGM to elect office bearers for the 2014-15 period was not required due to the dissolution of the board by Ministerial Order on 31 July 2014

Photo 5: Resource GV staff members, Brad Montgomery, Nick Nagle and Tracy Taylor

3.3 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE Interactivity of the Board, staff and committees of the Group, is set out in the structure diagram below:

Figure 4: Organisational Chart

Executive Officer

Nick Nagle

Regional Education Officer

Brad Montgomery

Goulburn Broken Greenhouse Alliance

Coordinator

Tracy Taylor

Special Committee 3

Goulburn Broken Greenhouse Alliance

Special Committee 2

Audit Committee

Special Committee 1 Technical Advisory

Committee

RESOURCE GV BOARD Chairman Greg Toll (Campaspe Shire Council), Deputy Chairman Wendy Buck (Moira Shire Council), Directors Robin Weatherald (Strathbogie Shire Council), Fern Summer

(Greater Shepparton City Council), Kevin Mulroney (Mitchell Shire Council) Bernie Magner (Murrindindi Shire Council).

GBGA Comms & Education Officer, Watts

Working Better project Emma Avery

3.4 BOARD MEETINGS The Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group Constitution requires the Management Board to meet at least once every three months. During 2011/2012 the Management Board met as follows:

23 August 2013

1 November 2013

28 February 2014

23 May 2014

Meeting Attendance

KEY: √ - Present x - Absent

Director

Meeting Dates

23/8/2013 1/11/2013 28/2/2014 23/5/2014

Dir. Toll

√

√

√

√

Dir. Buck

√

√

√

√

Dir. Magner

√

√

x

√

Dir. Weatherald

√

√

√

√

Dir. Mulroney

√

√

√

√

Dir. Summer

√

√

√

x

3.5 FINANCE AND AUDIT COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP On the 12 September 2003 the Board resolved to form an Audit Committee in order to ensure compliance, principally with the Standing Directions of the Minister for Finance under the Financial Management Act 1994. Functions: The Audit Committee assists the Group’s Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities. The Committee undertakes the oversight of (but not limited to):

Financial performance and the financial reporting process, including the annual financial statements

The scope of work, performance and independence of internal audit

The scope of work, independence and performance of the external auditor

The operation and implementation of the risk management framework

Matters of accountability and internal control affecting the operations of the Group

The effectiveness of management information systems and other systems of internal control

The acceptability of and correct accounting treatment for and disclosure of significant transactions which are not part of the Group’s normal course of business

The Group’s process for monitoring compliance with laws and regulations and its own Code of Conduct and Code of Financial Practice.

Membership for the 2013-14 reporting period was as follows:

Mr Alan Sutherland – Independent

Mr Phillip Friedlieb - Independent and Chair

Director Wendy Buck

Director Robin Weatherald In addition to the appointed members, the committee benefits from the assistance of an Internal Auditor, Mr Terry Lant who also attends meetings of the committee as required. The Executive Officer as the Chief Financial Accountable Officer (CFAO) attended all meetings as advisor and prepared agendas and minutes. All meetings of the Audit Committee are generally held in Shepparton.

Meeting Attendance The Audit Committee met on the following occasions:

9 August 2013

18 October 2013

31 January 2014

28 March 2014

13 June 2014

All meetings of the audit committee were in Shepparton

Audit Committee member

Meeting Date

9/08/2013 18/10/2013 31/1/2014 28/3/2014 13/6/2014

Mr Alan Sutherland

x

√

√

√

√

Mr Phillip Friedlieb (Chairman)

√

√

x

√

√

Dir. Weatherald

√

√

√

√

√

Dir. Buck

√

√

√

√

x

√ - Attendance x - Absent N/A - Not an elected/nominated representative at this time The Committee has continued to provide direction for organisational compliance and has been progressively implementing a range of continuous improvement measures within its governance framework.

3.6 TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Membership Criteria: One officer from each Member Council, and 2 directors from the board. Functions:

Support and advice with regard to the Groups technical functions.

Provide advice to the Management Committee on relevant matters, including recommendations of any Special Committee established by the Management Committee.

Provide a co-ordination role during the set up phase of any Special Committees. Secretariat: Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group Executive Officer and/or Regional Education Officer. Meeting Frequency: As required but nominally on a quarterly basis. Voting: One vote per Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group member Council (a proxy from the same member Council may attend and vote). The personnel involved in the Technical Advisory Committee for 2013/2014 was as follows: Campaspe Shire Council

Mr Brian Holmes (Waste Management Coordinator)

Ms Sheri Streilein

Murrindindi Shire Council

Mr Josh Russell (Coordinator Waste Management)

Greater Shepparton City Council

Mr Graeme Long (Manager Waste Services)

Moira Shire Council

Mr John Mangan (Program Coordinator - Waste & Recycling)

Mr James Walters

Mr George Bitcon (Team Leader Waste)

Mitchell Shire Council

Mr Barry Strong (Waste Management Officer)

Mr Shane Power (Manager Operations)

Ms Ann Mclean

Strathbogie Shire Council

Mr Darren Ritchie (Waste Engineer)

Meeting Attendance The Advisory Committee met on five occasions in the 2013/2014 reporting period:

Member

Meeting Date

9/8/2013 18/10/2013 7/2/2014 28/3/2014 22-

23/5/2014

George Bitcon (GSCC)

x x NA NA NA

George Bitcon (Moira Shire Council)

NA NA √ √ √

Graeme Long √ √ √ √

Greg McKenzie x x √

Darren Ritchie √ √ √ √

Brian Holmes √ x √ √

John Mangan √ √ x x

Josh Russell √ √ x x

Shane Power x x x NA

Dir R Weatherald √ √ x √

Dir W Buck x x x √

Dir K Mulroney √ x x √

Dir F Summer √ x x √

Martina Rienzner x √ x √

Sheri Streilein √ √ √ x

Ann Mclean √ x x √

James Walters x x x √

Nicola Thom x x x x

Barry Strong x √ x x

√ - Attendance x - Absent N/A - Not a nominated representative at this time

Photo 6: Resource GV Technical Advisory Committee members observing television de-manufacturing at the Darebin Resource Recovery Facility.

The Resource GV Technical Advisory Committee instigated numerous achievements in 2013-14, notably including:

Hume Landfill network formed and meeting held

Goulburn Valley Local Government Waste Forum rules adopted

Terms of reference developed for Technical Advisory Reference Group

Staging of three technical tours to Melbourne based resource recovery facilities.

Food recovery infrastructure (kitchen bin and bags) forum held in Melbourne

3.7 GOULBURN BROKEN GREENHOUSE ALLIANCE (GBGA) – SPECIAL

COMMITTEE Membership Criteria: One officer from each Member Council and one councillor from each member council Functions:

The members will work collaboratively to achieve the agreed outcomes;

The members will monitor the success of initiatives entered into; and

The members will work collaboratively to solve problems as they arise. Secretariat: GBGA coordinator. Meeting Frequency: Required twice a year, but nominally on a quarterly basis. Voting: Two votes per GBGA member Council (a proxy from the same member Council may attend and vote). The personnel involved in the GBGA Special Committee for 2013-2014 was as follows: Murrindindi Shire Council

Ms Zoe Stephens (Coordinator Environmental Programs)

Cr John Kennedy Greater Shepparton City Council

Mr Greg McKenzie (Manager Environment)

Ms Sharon Terry (Sustainability and Environment Officer)

Cr Les Oroszvary

Cr Fern Summer

Moira Shire Council

Ms Sally Rice (Manager Safety Amenity and Environment)

Mr Tom Brown (Environment Sustainability Officer)

Cr Wendy Buck Mitchell Shire Council

Ms Annemaree Docking (Sustainability Officer)

Stacey Gardiner (Manager Strategic Planning and Sustainability)

Cr Bill Melbourne Strathbogie Shire Council

Mr Peterson Asante (Manager Projects and Works)

Mr Darren Ritchie (Waste Engineer)

Cr Robin Weatherald

Cr Colleen Furlanetto Benalla Rural City Council

Ms Larissa Montgomery (Environment Sustainability Coordinator)

Ms Veronica Schilling (General Manager Development & Environment)

Ms Narelle Martin

Cr Ellen Crocker Mansfield Shire Council

Ms Suzie Healy (Environment Officer)

Ms Heather Bradbury (Environment Officer)

Cr Paul Sladdin

Campaspe Shire Council

Allison McCallum (Environmental Project Officer – Conservation)

Brian Holmes (Waste Coordinator)

Cr Leigh Wilson

Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority

Ms Kate Brunt (Senior Project Officer – Climate change)

Mr Steve Wilson (Land and Biodiversity Program Manager)

Meeting Attendance The GBGA Special Committee met on four occasions in the 2013-14 reporting period:

Member Meeting Date

Sept 2013 Nov 2013 March 2014 June 2014

Zoe Stephens √ √ x √

Sarah James N/A N/A √ N/A

Cr John Kennedy x x x x

Greg McKenzie x √ x x

Sharon Terry √ √ x √

Danielle Murdoch N/A N/A √ N/A

Cr Les Oroszvary x x N/A N/A

Cr Fern Summer N/A N/A x √

Sally Rice √ x x x

Tom Brown √ √ √ x

James Walters N/A √ N/A N/A

Cr Wendy Buck x x x x

Annemaree Docking

√ √ N/A N/A

Stacey Gardiner N/A N/A x x

Cr Bill Melbourne x x x x

Peterson Asante x x x x

Darren Ritchie x x x

Cr Robin Weatherald

x x √ √

Cr Colleen Furlanetto

√ x x x

Larissa Montgomery

x x x x

Veronica Schilling √ x x x

Narelle Martin N/A N/A √ √

Cr Barbara Alexandra

x x N/A N/A

Cr Ellen Crocker N/A N/A x √

Suzie Healy N/A N/A N/A N/A

Heather Bradbury √ √ √ √

Cr Paul Sladdin N/A x x x

Kate Brunt √ x x x

Melanie Haddow N/A √ N/A N/A

Steve Wilson x x x x

Allison McCallum √ x √ √

Brian Holmes N/A x N/A N/A

Cr Leigh Wilson N/A √ √ x

Chelsea Cherry x √ √ x

Danielle Leehane N/A N/A √ √

Martina Rienzner √ √ x x

Andrew Heslin √ N/A N/A N/A

Helen Jones N/A N/A N/A √

√ - Attendance x - Absent N/A - Not a nominated representative at this time

Photos 7&8: GBGA member representatives at the launch of the Watts Working Better project The GBGA Special Committee instigated numerous achievements in 2013-14, notably including:

Development and delivery of the Local Government Sustainability Training Program stage 2 Leadership and Sustainable Decision Making and stage 3 – Sustainability Council and You. Over 500 participants were involved in the training across the 8 councils in the Goulburn Broken region.

Launched the Watts Working Better Project. This project will retrofit 12, 661 street lights to more energy efficient light across 9 councils in the Goulburn Broken region during 2014 and 2015. The total project costs are $4.4 million and will save councils around $15.6 million. Councils received $2.95 million from the Australian Governments Community Energy Efficiency Program.

Moira Shire Council received $200,000 from the Victorian Adaptation and Sustainability Partnerships program to deliver the Climate Smart Agricultural Adaption project across 7 councils in the Goulburn Broken region. This project will equip farmers, farm advisers, agribusiness industries and Councils with information about the potential impact of climate change scenarios on our local region

4. REPORT OF RESOURCE GV OPERATIONS 4.1 MANAGEMENT TEAM In implementing regional strategies, Resource GV relies on both internal and external human resources. In 2013/14 Resource GV employed a full time Executive Officer, and a full-time Education Officer. The success of Resource GV’s programs is also contingent upon the support of directors and officers of member councils and other external organisations with whom partnerships are forged. Executive Officer: The main purpose of the Executive Officer position is to support the Group in the development and implementation of its plans, budgets, programs, projects and activities for waste management in the region, in accordance with relevant legislation, policy and guidelines, and consistent with regional needs and priorities. A key objective of the position is to ensure the Group develops and maintains a vision of continuous improvement in the management of waste and litter in the region, and makes progress towards the achievement of state-wide policy goals and regional objectives for municipal waste reduction. The Executive Officer is therefore considered a creative source for the strategic thinking and planning of the Group, and a driving force behind the implementation of its waste management plans and programs. The present incumbent – Mr Nick Nagle, is responsible for the operational and financial (CAFO) management activities of the Group and co-ordinates the strategic planning functions, budget, funding opportunities and liaison with other relevant bodies. Regional Education Officer: The main purpose of the Regional Education Officer position is to support the development and delivery of community education programs and actions in the region. The strategic basis for these programs is defined in the Groups waste management plan, business plan, and its regional waste and litter reduction strategy, and reflected in the corresponding plans or strategies developed by member Councils at the local level. The regional education strategy, in particular, has been developed to be consistent with State level policies and strategies and Sustainability Victoria’s business plan, further the Groups regional waste management plan, define the Groups objectives and priorities for waste and litter reduction, and to establish the programs and activities to achieve these objectives. A key objective of the position is to assist stakeholders in the region to develop the necessary understanding, capacity and commitment to change practices and undertake activities to reduce waste and litter, and hence support the Groups progress towards the achievement of state-wide policy goals and regional objectives. The Regional Education Officer is therefore expected to provide a point of stimulus, a source of encouragement, and a repository of tools, knowledge and ideas for educational and promotional activities in waste and litter reduction.

The present incumbent Mr Brad Montgomery reports to the Executive Officer and is responsible for planning and implementing waste education activities and programs across the Region. Greenhouse Alliance Coordinator: The position objective is to facilitate the development and growth of the Goulburn Broken Greenhouse Alliance by overseeing delivery of the Alliance’s Strategic Plan, building the membership and network of the Alliance and developing new funding opportunities. The present incumbent, Ms Tracy Taylor, is accountable to the Executive Officer Resource GV for:

Managing the business affairs of the Alliance;

Initiating, implementing or coordinating relevant programs and projects;

Increasing the awareness of climate change adaptation and the capacity of the region to adapt to climate change;

Increasing awareness of regional greenhouse gas emission reduction and the capacity of the region to reduce emissions;

Developing regional climate change adaptation and greenhouse gas emission reduction projects, to avoid duplication of effort and to share information, resources and capacities in the region;

Delivering the Alliance’s Strategic Plan. External support: The officers of Resource GV are required to attend board and special project group meetings as well as other project based activities from time to time. Officers of Resource GV, EPA, Sustainability Victoria and other Government and private sector organisations take part in regional activities. 4.2 RESOURCE GV STRATEGIC DIRECTION AND AUTHORITY DEVELOPMENT Resource GV prepares and implements Group policies, strategies and programs that are articulated through its regional waste management plan and then implemented through the annual business planning and reporting process. The EPA approves the waste management plans of Resource GV. The Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) formally reviews Resource GV’s Annual Report and advises the Minister on presentation of those reports to Parliament. Sustainability Victoria provides the opportunity for additional funding to Resource GV through tied grants and informally reviews the Resource GV Business Plan.

4.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN The following are broad objectives of the Plan, developed to ensure that the Group and its member meet the requirements of Group policy and legislation, especially the provisions of division 2B of the Environment Protection Act 1970. Operation of Region

Seek to establish the most effective means of operation for the Region whereby it is less reliant on Government funding, in tune with the community needs and has broad community representation and acceptance.

Waste Management

To provide for the current and future management of waste in a cost effective, equitable and efficient manner using best practice for environmental improvement.

Waste Reduction

To reduce the per capita quantity of waste going to landfill to provide almost no waste by the year 2020.

Waste Minimisation

To encourage the implementation of best practice to achieve the minimisation of waste at all sources.

Education and promotion

To increase community awareness of and educate the community in proper waste management practices.

Litter Prevention

Enhance litter control through an integrated approach to litter control, combining education, enforcement and prevention at source.

Disposal

To provide for best practice waste disposal for all regional wastes for a 25 year time frame, which is to be utilised as a last resort, in accordance with the Waste Hierarchy.

Reduce

Recycle

Reuse

Dispose

Recover Energy

Treat

Target: No Waste 2020

Com

postingVer

micul

ture

Figure 5: The Waste Hierarchy

4.4 OPERATIONAL OBJECTIVES AND PERFORMANCE AGAINST OBJECTIVES KEY ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE PERIOD In general terms the Group has performed well against its stated objectives, with improvement against regional targets and a focus on the collaborative development of state-wide community education campaigns for waste avoidance and minimisation. The maintenance of productive outputs has been pleasing in view of the significant reform activities that took place in the period. Summaries of the activities identified in the 2013-14 business plan, are as follows:

Priority Area: Waste Generation

Objective A: Reduced waste generation

Activity

Completed

1. Undertake a regional survey of attitudes toward waste and recycling.

√

2. Develop shared regional education tools to support kerbside services

√

3. Resource Smart schools program support as deputy consortia lead.

√

Additional Achievements:

4. Conduct kerbside audit of food waste in garbage bins and garbage in recycling bins (Greater Shepparton and Murrindindi)

√

Priority Area: Resource Recovery

Objective B: Increase resource recovery Activity

Completed

1. Develop and provide training opportunities that build appropriate expertise in resource recovery eg conflict management training

√

2. Assess current resource recovery network against best practise standards through facility review.

√

3. Support organics collection and processing option assessment in Mitchell and Murrindindi Shires.

√

4. Undertake required research into potential biosecurity barriers to successful organics collection.

√

5. Investigate infrastructure requirements and concepts for pre-sort of industrial waste prior to landfill.

Deferred until development of

Regional Waste and Resource Recovery

Implementation Plan.

6. Investigation of market development opportunities and barriers for recycled glass fines into road and footpath construction.

√

7. Involvement in state approved waste education campaign ‘Get it Right on Bin Night’

√


8. Arranged and staged technical tour of Melbourne based resource recovery centres and material recovery facilities.

√

9. Finalised ‘Planning for Waste and Resource Recovery in the Hume Region’ project

√

10. Finalised ‘Plastic Bits and Bytes Recovery Systems for Northern Victoria’ project (Towards Zero Waste support fund)

√

11. Finalised ‘Sustainable Organics Management in the Goulburn Valley’ project (Towards Zero Waste support fund)

√

12. Finalised 2012-13 (year one) project reports for Regional Waste Management Group Support package.

√

13. Finalised 2012-13 (year two) project reports and transition arrangements for Regional Waste Management Group Support package.

√

14. Conducted audits of recyclables in garbage and recycling bins (Murrindindi and Greater Shepparton)

√

15. Participated in the Sustainability Victoria led review of transfer stations and resource recovery centres in Rural & Regional Victoria

√

16. Participated in the Sustainability Victoria led Victorian Organics Strategy consultation sessions

√

17. Undertook annual program review for Drummuster program √

18. Undertook annual program review for Dropzone TV and Computer recycling program

√

19. Undertook investigation of market development opportunities and barriers for recycled organics into broadacre agriculture.

√

Priority Area: Residual waste management

Objective C: Reduced harmful effects caused by residual waste Activity Completed

1. Implement ‘Asbestos Check’ domestic asbestos disposal training and develop community education program campaign.

√

2. Develop regional litter and public place recycling priorities and long term strategy.

√

3. Document waste management learnings from recent peak emergency events and investigate compilation of guidance material for this purpose.

√

4. Facilitate a landfill focussed forum to support best practice operation

√


5. Conducted audits of household chemicals in garbage bins(Murrindindi and Greater Shepparton)

√

6. Undertake preliminary options assessment for Hildene landfill (Mitchell Shire) in line with Statewide Waste and Resource Recovery Infrastructure Plan.

√

Priority Area: Greenhouse Alliance

Objective D: Our communities actively responding to climate change to help build a

positive future. Activity Completed

1. Deliver capacity building programs to, and undertake research for community, business and local government.

√

2. Communicate successes and be an advocate to inspire action.

√

3. Partner with the business sector and other Hume region professionals to foster green industries.

√

4. Investigate models for resourcing and good governance that will ensure sustainability of the Alliance.

√


5. Development and delivery of the Local Government Sustainability Training Program

√

6. Launched of the ‘Watts Working Better’ Project (bulk retrofit of street lights).

√

7. Recruitment of Communications and Education Officer √

8. Facilitation of successful ‘Climate Smart Agricultural Adaption’ funding application for a project across 7 councils Victorian Adaptation and Sustainability Partnerships program.

√

Priority Area: Governance

Objective E: High quality governance and planning for the Group Activity Completed

1. Produce Annual Report

√

2. Commence planning for the development of Regional Waste and Resource Recovery Implementation plans.

√

3. Produce Business Plan

√

4. Effectively and efficiently support transition to new governance arrangements.

√


5. Timely provision of agendas and minute preparation/circulation.

√

6. Tracking against strategy. Inclusion graphical representation of tracking against strategy in annual report and Business plan.

√

7. Participated in various governance and administrative reform transitional committees with DEPI and other portfolio agencies. Established and operated Regional Steering Committee to coordinate the transition process.

√

8. Promotion of recruitment process for skills based board members for the Goulburn Valley Waste and Resource Recovery Group.

√

9. Facilitate and administer special committees meetings. Frequency as per required for Audit, Technical and Greenhouse Alliance functions.

√

10. Facilitated Local Government Waste Forum establishment and provided secretariat for initial meeting.

√

11. Facilitated applications for priority funding for Transfer Stations and Resource Recovery Centre Upgrades.

√

12. Relocation of office to more appropriate facility.

√

13. Change of office phone system to voice over internet system.

√

14. Co-facilitation of joint tendering project for kerbside waste collection and processing of five councils in Hume region.

√

Kerbside Performance Achievement The information contained within this section relies on the Local Government Data Survey which is a lagging indicator of Council performance across municipal solid waste collection services. Sustainability Victoria compiles and interrogates this data, undertaking a lengthy review process to ensure its integrity. Only the information that is published and publically available at the time of report preparation has been utilised. Sustainability Victoria provides this information annually in advance of its formal release for the purpose of the production of Regional Waste Management Group Business Plans and Annual Report.

*Figures represent actual result per household serviced, rather than per number of

services who have the option to access a service.

HOUSEHOLD MATERIALS GENERATED PER HOUSEHOLD SERVICED

2010-11 Sustainability

Victoria Local Govt survey data

State average

2011-12 Sustainability

Victoria Local Govt survey data

State average

Kg/household/yr 2010-11 Kg/household/yr 2011-12

Waste to landfill (garbage) kg/household/year

Campaspe: 529

488

Campaspe: 532

Not yet released

Shepparton: 517 Shepparton: 517

Mitchell: 481 Mitchell: 523

Moira: 514 Moira: 606

Murrindindi: 363 Murrindindi: 401

Strathbogie: 477 Strathbogie: 466

Reg. Total: 499 Reg. Total: 522

Commingled packaging and paper/cardboard recyclables collected kg/household/year

Campaspe: 260

279

Campaspe: 246

Not yet released



Moira: 286 Moira: 322



Reg. Total: 287 Reg. Total: 283

Garden organics collected

kg/household/year

Campaspe: 570

367

Campaspe: 588

Not yet released



Moira: 0 Moira: 0



Reg. Total: 417* Reg. Total: 390*

Kerbside Diversion Rate by Municipality / Region

Household material generated per household serviced (%)

Municipality 2010-11 Local Govt data survey

State average 2010-11

2011-12 Local Govt data survey

State average 2011-12

Kerbside recyclables % of total tonnes i.e.: Recyclables Recycled x 100 [Garbage + Recyclables Collected]

Campaspe 29

33

32

Not yet released

COGS 38 36

Mitchell 39 37

Moira 41 35 Murrindindi 38 39

Strathbogie 33 34

Region Ave

36 35

Kerbside recyclables and organics % of total tonnes i.e.: [Recyclables + G. O Processed] x 100 [Garbage + Recyclables Recycled + G. O. Collected]

Campaspe 35

46

37

Not yet released

COGS 52 50

Mitchell 39 37

Moira 41 39

Murrindindi 38 38

Strathbogie 33 32

Region Ave

43 42

Kerbside and drop off recyclables, and organics % of total tonnes i.e.: [Recyclables + G. O Processed] x 100 [Garbage + Recyclables Recycled + G. O. Collected]

Campaspe 36

50

39

Not yet released

COGS 55 53 Mitchell 58 40 Moira 51 39

Murrindindi 43 42

Strathbogie 50 43

Region Ave

50 45

4.5 KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS In 2005/06 Resource GV adopted a series of key performance indicators (KPI's) and has since continued to report progress against these in its Business Plans and Annual reports. Future targets and KPIs may be different to deliver Getting Full Value and as such these will be revisited in 2014/15 in conjunction with a transition towards new institutional and governance arrangements. Through Getting Full Value, the government have committed to undertake a comprehensive review of data management systems, to consider which policy indicators remain relevant, and develop more reliable and valid indicators once the systems are in place to support them. Other ways that Resource GV monitors the performance is via the annual Local regional waste auditing, and community attitudes surveys. Tracking Regional Performance

Key Performance Indicator 1: Household Waste to Landfill

Reduction in the contribution of the per household rate for waste generated (measured in kilograms per household per year – kg/service/yr) in the region going to landfill to 398kgs by 2008-09, and to 300kgs 20013-14

Figure 6: Regional Kerbside Garbage Average

A total of 75,037 properties (including 4,056 non-residential) are now have a garbage service in the region. Part of the reason for the Resource GV’s strong kerbside performance figures is the fact that a high proportion of these services also have a recyclables service.

Key Performance Indicator 2: Kerbside Recycling Recovery Rate

Increase the existing household recovery rate for kerbside recycling to 283kg/hh/yr by 2008-09 and 347kg/hh/yr by 2013/14.

Figure 7: Regional Recycling Yield

A number of councils have extended their kerbside service coverage in 2010-11 with over 4120 non-residential properties now serviced in the Region. The total number of recycling services grew by 808 during the 2010-11 data collection year to total of 76,331.

Key Performance Indicator 3: Organics Recovery Rate

Increase organics yield to 315kg/hh/yr by 2008/09 and 375kg/hh/yr by 2013/14 on per household basis

Increase the existing households serviced by a green organics service to 18,000 by 2008-09 and 35,500 by 2013-14.

Figure 8: Yield per Green Organics Service

Regional kerbside organics collections are currently limited to a voluntary service in Campaspe (2378 services) and an optional service offered in Greater Shepparton (15,641). The total number of these services grew by over 307 during the 2010-11data collection year.

Figure 9: Households with a Green Organics Service

Further growth in kerbside organics service number regionally is the main priority of the Group and timing of this is dependent on the tendering processes of member councils. No new kerbside collection contracts were commenced during the reporting period.

Key Performance Indicator 4: Overall Household Materials Recovery Rate

Increase the overall household materials recovery rate from its current level to 45% by 2008/09 and to 65% by 2013/14.

Figure 10: Regional Kerbside Diversion Performance.

Strong performance in overall diversion rate will be largely due and dependant on the successful uptake of green organics services in the future. Beyond a 50% diversion level, improvements will be dependent on such factors as:

Innovation in kerbside models such as a fortnightly garbage/weekly recyclables collection.

A further downsizing of garbage bin size

Introduction of organics diversion programs

Changes in household waste generation levels.

4.6 THE FUTURE A new board was appointed for the Goulburn Valley Waste and Resource Recovery Group (GVWRRG) by the Governor in Council in July, ahead of the wind up of the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group. Once established on August 1 2014, the GVWRRG board will be provided with a thorough induction and board development process prior to working closely with their member councils, and industry to develop a robust Waste and Resource Recovery Implementation Plan which is supported by all stakeholders. The overall waste governance and administrative reform processes will build regional capacity and improve the delivery of the Getting Full Value policy through:

Strengthened board structure

Amalgamating thirteen into seven larger organisations statewide

Ensuring capacity to deliver core functions

Planning for all waste streams

Aligning regional planning with statewide planning

Facilitating joint procurement by local governments The new Group will also be working to ensure the regions interest are well represented in the development of Sustainability Victoria’s key responsibilities over the coming 11 months:

Statewide Waste and Resource Recovery Planning Framework

Statewide market development strategy

Statewide investment strategy (including infrastructure funding)

Statewide business and community education strategy

Statewide data management governance framework

Joint procurement and business support for WRRGs and councils Local Government Waste Forums will be a conduit for consultation between the new GVWRRG and local governments, and for advice to the GVWRRG board on matters and issues affecting the role of local governments in waste management and resource recovery. The GVWRRG will provide logistical and secretariat support and advice to the forum to ensure it can establish itself in the new waste and resource recovery organisational framework. 5. STATEMENT OF LEGISLATIVE COMPLIANCE 5.1 AVAILABILITY OF OTHER INFORMATION Any information on the following, not included in the report of operations, is available on request, subject to subject to the Freedom of Information Act 1982, from the Resource GV Executive Officer either by phone on 0358221300 or in writing to P.O. Box 6919, Shepparton MC VIC 3630.

a) Declarations of pecuniary interest have been duly completed by relevant officers, and are available upon request.

b) Publications produced by Resource GV, and how these can be obtained. c) Changes in prices, fees, charges, rates and levies charged. d) Major external reviews carried out on Resource GV. e) Major research and development activities undertaken. f) Overseas travel undertaken including a summary of the objectives and

outcomes of each visit. g) Major promotional, public relations and marketing activities undertaken by

Resource GV to develop community awareness of Resource GV and its services.

h) Assessments and measures undertaken to improve the OHS of employees. i) A general statement on IR within Resource GV and details of time lost through

industrial accidents and disputes. j) A list of major committees sponsored by Resource GV, the purposes of each

committee and the extent to which the purposes have been achieved k) Details of shares held by a senior officer as nominee, or held beneficially in a

statutory authority or subsidiary; and l) Details of all consultancies and contractors including: consultants/contractors

engaged; services provided; and expenditure committed to for each engagement.

5.2 STATEMENT OF WORKPLACE DATA There has been one change to employment arrangements during the 2013-14 reporting period with the engagement of a fixed term 0.2 FTE Communications Officer.

2014 2013 (As at 31/7/14) (As at 30/6/13) Total Employees 4 3 Male 2 2 Female 2 1 Part Time 2 1 Full Time 2 2 Equivalent Full Time 2.8 2.6 Managers/Professionals (Male) 2 2 Managers/Professionals (Female) 2 1 Clerks (Male) 0 0 Clerks (Female) 0 0 Staff Turnover 0 0 STATEMENT OF MERIT AND EQUITY Resource GV is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and the establishment and maintenance of a non-discriminatory work environment. Resource GV aims to ensure that all persons are assessed solely on the basis of merit with respect to recruitment, promotion and access to training and other programs and facilities. This approach reflects Resource GV’s desire to have a work place free from discrimination, where each person has the opportunity to progress to the extent of their ability and the needs of the organisation. Resource GV is committed to the principles of merit and equity as covered under the Public Administration Act 2004, including:

Employers must ensure Employees must

Decisions are based on merit

Employees are treated fairly and reasonably

EEO is provided

Reasonable avenues of redress against unfair or unreasonable treatment

Act impartially

Display integrity including avoiding real or apparent conflict of interests

Show accountability for actions

Provide responsive service

Demonstrate respect

Demonstrate leadership

Respect and promote human rights

5.3 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY (OH&S) The Group has the appropriate Workcover policy and conducts safe work practices. The Group has an OH&S policy as part of its charter of corporate governance which includes OH&S inductions procedure and an incident log. There have not been any reports or claims made for injuries or near misses. Workplace assessments have been conducted by a licensed contractor and these arrangements are reviewed annually as part of the internal audit work program. 5.4 APPLICATION AND OPERATION OF FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT

1982 Resource GV is a State Statutory Agency under the Environment Protection Act 1970, and so is a ‘Government Agency’ under the terms of the Freedom of Information Act 1982. Accordingly, it is required to comply with the procedures that have been prescribed under which members of the public may gain access to information held by agencies. Access to documents may be obtained through written request to the authorised FOI officer. Requests should be addressed to the Authorised Officer as follows: Resource GV FOI Officer Mr Nicholas Nagle PO Box 6919 Shepparton MC Vic 3630 From 1 July 2014, the application fee will be $26.50, in line with the value of a fee unit for the 2014-15 financial year. (Section 17(25A) of the Freedom of Information Act 1982 sets the fee at two fee units.) A decision to release information is made by either the Principal Officer or an Authorised Officer There were no requests received under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 during the reporting period. 5.5 COMPLIANCE WITH BUILDING & MAINTENANCE PROVISIONS OF THE

BUILDING ACT 1993 Resource GV did not undertake any building works, which fall within the provisions of the Building Act 1993, as its premises are leased and any waste management services are provided by contractors. 5.6 NATIONAL COMPETITION POLICY The national competition reform agenda has resulted in a greater emphasis on the encouragement of competition in the community. Competitive neutrality is a principle of the National Competition Policy and requires that, as far as practicable, government owned businesses compete with private sector businesses on the same footing. Resource GV, as the independent manager of, and investor in Resource GV’s assets, purchases services and goods in line with the Victorian Government Purchasing Authority’s guidelines. In doing this, Resource GV applies the following principles:

o Value for Money

o Open and Fair Competition o Accountability o VIPP policy

Resource GV adheres to the principles of the National Competition Policy to ensure that any business competition with private entities takes place in an environment where Resource GV has no competitive advantage. The Environment Protection Act 1970 specifically precludes Resource GV from undertaking waste management activity that is being carried out on a commercial basis anywhere in Victoria. Resource GV strictly adheres to relevant provisions of the Environment Protection Act 1970 in relation to this issue. 5.7 CULTURAL DIVERSITY- AGED, YOUTH, KOORIES, NESB The Group is aware of the PREMIER'S CIRCULARS NO. 2003/3 and 2006/1 - Whole of Government Reporting on Responsiveness to Cultural Diversity, Women, Youth and Indigenous Affairs, and it is noted by the Group as an issue to be recognised. Resource GV is committed to policies, programs and strategies aimed at delivering culturally appropriate services to all Victorians.

5.8 PRIVACY ACT The Information Privacy Act 2000 and came into force on Sept 1 2002. Resource GV as a Public Sector Agency is subject to the Privacy Act and has taken steps to ensure compliance with the provisions. The Executive Officer as the Privacy Officer did not receive any complaints concerning breaches of the provisions of the Privacy Act during the 2013 /2014 reporting period 5.9 PROTECTED DISCLOSURES ACT 2012

The Protected Disclosure Act 2012 (PD Act) enables people to make disclosures

about improper conduct by public officers and public bodies. The Act aims to ensure

openness and accountability by encouraging people to make disclosures and

protecting them when they do.

What is a 'protected disclosure'?

A protected disclosure is a complaint of corrupt or improper conduct by a public officer

or a public body.

The Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group is a “public body” for the

purposes of the Act.

What is ‘improper or corrupt conduct’?

Improper or corrupt conduct involves substantial:

mismanagement of public resources; or

risk to public health or safety or the environment; or

corruption.

The conduct must be criminal in nature or a matter for which an officer could be

dismissed.

How do I make a 'Protected Disclosure'?

You can make a protected disclosure about the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste

Management Group or its board members, officers or employees by contacting DEPI

or IBAC on the contact details provided below.

Please note that the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group is not able

to receive protected disclosures.

How can I access Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group’s

procedures for the protection of persons from detrimental action?

The Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group has established procedures

for the protection of persons from detrimental action in reprisal for making a protected

disclosure about Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group or its

employees. These are available on request from the Executive Officer on

0358221300.

Contacts:

Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI)

Jennifer Berensen, Senior Advisor, Privacy & Ombudsman

Department of Environment and Primary Industries

Address: PO Box 500, East Melbourne Vic 8002

Ph: (03) 9637 8697

Website: www.depi.vic.gov.au

Independent Broad-Based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC) Victoria

Address: Level 1, North Tower, 459 Collins Street, Melbourne Victoria

3000.

Mail: IBAC, GPO Box 24234, Melbourne Victoria 3001

Internet: www.ibac.vic.gov.au

Phone: 1300 735 135

Email: see the website above for the secure email disclosure process, which

also provides for anonymous disclosures.

http://www.depi.vic.gov.au/

http://www.ibac.vic.gov.au/

5.10 OFFICE BASED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Resource GV employs four officers that operate from an office in Shepparton and has made a commitment to lead by example in promoting and maintaining the principles of sustainability within its office environment. As such Resource GV participates in Sustainability Victoria’s ResourceSmart program and is a member of the EcoBuy program, co-coordinated by the Municipal Association of Victoria. Other achievements relative to minimising environmental impacts of operation include:

25% Green Power has been purchased through energy retailer

Office paper recycling bins continue to be supplied to member Councils and the office complex that the Group operates from in order to ensure that this is a universally accepted system for employees.

Train travel is preferred where possible for all meetings in Melbourne.

Teleconferencing is being used with increased frequency.

Purchase of 100% recycled office paper and use of the first commercial printing companies in Regional Victoria to be awarded the Sustainable Green Print (SGP) tick of approval.

5.11 SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

As Resource GV ceased to exist on the 31 July 2014, its operations cannot be affected by any events in the subsequent reporting period.

5.12 MAJOR CHANGES OR FACTORS AFFECTING PERFORMANCE

There were no changes or factors affecting performance to report. 5.13 VICTORIAN INDUSTRY PARTICIPATION POLICY DISCLOSURES The Victorian Industry Participation Policy (VIPP) aims to ensure that local suppliers can participate in procurement and industry assistance activities across Government, wherever they offer the best value for money. The VIPP applies when the Victorian Government’s funding or provision of a grant exceeds $3m in Metropolitan Melbourne and $1m in regional Victoria. There were no contracts over $1 million awarded by Resource GV during the reporting period.

5.14 DISCLOSURE INDEX The 2013/14 Annual Report of the Goulburn Valley RWMG is prepared in accordance with all relevant Victorian legislation. This index has been prepared to facilitate identification of the authorities’ compliance with statutory disclosure requirements.

Ministerial Directions

Report of Operations

Legislation Requirement Page Reference

Charter and purpose

FRD 22E Manner of establishment and the relevant Ministers 9

FRD 22E Objectives, functions, powers and duties 9

FRD 22E Nature and range of services provided 11

Management and structure

FRD 22E Organisational structure 15

Financial and other information

FRD 8B Budget portfolio outcomes 48

FRD 10 Disclosure index 45

FRD 12A Disclosure of major contracts 49

FRD 15B Executive officer disclosures F26

FRD 22E, SD 4.2(k) Operational and budgetary objectives and performance against objectives

29,47

FRD 22E Employment and conduct principles 40

FRD 22E Occupational health and safety policy 41

FRD 22E Summary of the financial results for the reporting period 47

FRD 22E Significant changes in financial position during the reporting period

48

FRD 22E Major changes or factors affecting performance 44

FRD 22E Subsequent events 44

FRD 22E Application and operation of Freedom of Information Act 1982 41

FRD 22E Compliance with building and maintenance provisions of Building Act 1993

41

FRD 22E Statement on National Competition Policy 41

FRD 22E Application and operation of the Protected Disclosure 2012 42

FRD 22E Application and operation of the Carers Recognition Act 2012 NA

FRD 22E Details of consultancies over $10 000 48

FRD 22E Details of consultancies under $10 000 49

FRD 22E Statement of availability of other information 39

FRD 24C Reporting of office-based environmental impacts1 44

FRD 25B Victorian Industry Participation Policy disclosures 44

FRD 29 Workforce Data disclosures 40

SD 4.5.5 Risk management compliance attestation 51

SD 4.5.5.1 Ministerial Standing Direction 4.5.5.1 compliance attestation 51

SD 4.2(g) Specific information requirements 39

SD 4.2(j) Sign-off requirements 51

1 Only required from the Environment Protection Authority and Sustainability Victoria, but encouraged for inclusion in all annual reports

Financial Statements

Legislation Requirement Page Reference

Financial Statements required under Part 7 of the FMA

SD 4.2(a) Statement of changes in equity F5

SD 4.2(b) Operating statement F3

SD 4.2(b) Balance Sheet F4

SD 4.2(b) Cash flow statement F6

Other requirements under Standing Directions 4.2 SD 4.2(c) Compliance with Australian accounting standards and other

authoritative pronouncements

F8,12,28

SD 4.2(c) Statement of compliance F28

SD 4.2(d) Rounding of amounts F7

SD 4.2(c) Accountable Officer’s declaration F28

Other disclosures as required by FRDs in notes to the financial statements FRD 11 Disclosure of Ex-gratia Payments F27

FRD 12A Disclosure of major contracts 48

FRD 21B Responsible Person and Executive Officer Disclosures in the Financial Report

F26

FRD 102 Inventories F17

FRD 103D Non-Current Physical Assets F17

FRD 104 Foreign Currency F24

FRD 106 Impairment of Assets F9,18

FRD 109 Intangible Assets NA

FRD 110 Cash Flow Statements F6

FRD 112C Defined Benefit Superannuation Obligations NA

FRD 113 Investments in Subsidiaries, Jointly Controlled Entities and Associates

NA

FRD 114A Financial Instruments – General Government Entities and Public Non-Financial Corporations

F18

FRD 119 Contributions By Owners F10

Legislation

Freedom of Information Act 1982 41

Building Act 1993 41

Protected Disclosure Act 2001 42

Carers Recognition Act 2012 NA

Victorian Industry Participation Policy Act 2003 44

Financial Management Act 1994 51

Environment Protection Act 1970 9

6. FINANCIALS BUDGETARY OBJECTIVES AND PERFORMANCE AGANIST OBJECTIVES A balanced budget was adopted for the 2013/14 reporting period with a profit being recorded principally through the receival of prepaid project contributions. 6.1 FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY

2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

Core Business Revenue

$258,817

$305,883

$343,530

$331,618

$368,941

Project Grants

$401,087

$257,966

$82,992

$269,748

$292,958

Member Funds and Other

$94,882

$178,149

$205,582

$173,746

$282,911

TOTAL REVENUE

$754,786

$741,998

$632,104

$775,112

$944,810

Administration

$408,067

$426,743

$421,840

$462,638

$554,185

Corporate Expenditure

$18,317

$50,674

$29,635

$30,735

$23,404

Project Expenditure

$227,123

$238,059

$201,864

$239,545

$211,557

TOTAL EXPENDITURE

$653,507

$715,476

$653,321

$732,918

$789,146

Current Assets

$294,329

$272,807

$392,344

$347,890

$427,602

Non-Current Assets

$102,710

$100,310

$93,754

$102,359

$62,148

TOTAL ASSETS

$397,039

$373,117

$486,098

$450,249

$489,750

Current Liabilities

$150,760

$94,618

$220,061

$185,791

$129,108

Non-Current Liabilities

$7,273

$13,511

$24,593

$31,866

$13,962

TOTAL LIABILITIES

$158,033

$108,129

$244,654

$217,657

$143,070

Resource GV received funding during the reporting period for its core administration derived from the landfill levy, which is paid by any party disposing waste at landfill in Victoria. These payments were made in accordance with the Environment Protection (Distribution

of Landfill Levy) Regulations 2010 which was amended on 18 June 2013. Resource GV received $368,941 in the reporting period. The utilisation of these funds from the landfill levy are summarised in 6.2 below. 6.2 USE OF LANDFILL LEVY MONIES

Employment and associated costs for Regional Education Officer and Executive Officer - $ 231,220

Meeting expenses, delegate’s expenses and sitting fees - $57,685

Administration of Group (insurances, telephone, office rental - $80,036

All these activities are directly associated with core operation of the Group, including the implementation of specific aspects of the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group - Regional Waste Management Plan and Business Plan. 6.3 SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN FINANCIAL POSITION DURING THE REPORTING PERIOD There were no significant changes in financial position during the reporting period. 6.4 FINANCIAL AUDITING Financial auditing is under the control of the Victorian Auditor-General’s Office. That Office has appointed as their agent Kathie Teasdale (Partner) RSD Chartered Accountants as the auditor of the Regions’ financial statements for the period ended July 31, 2014. 6.5 DECLARATION UNDER DIRECTION 9.1.3(IV) OF THE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT ACT 1994 In accordance with Direction 9.1.3(iv) of the Financial Management Act 1994, Resource GV will make all relevant information, such as declarations of pecuniary interest and details of overseas visits etc., available to the Minister on request. 6.6 BUDGET PORTFOLIO OUTCOMES Under its obligations to section 50QC of the Environment Protection Act 1970, Resource GV has reported in section 6.2 of this report and on page 8 and 9 of the financial statements on all the activities it has undertaken that were funded by the landfill levy. 6.7 CONSULTANCIES GREATER THAN $10,000

The definition of consultancy was updated effective from 1 July 2013. Consequently, disclosures on the 2013-14 consultancy expenditure cannot be compared with previous year disclosures. There were six consultancies greater than $10,000 engaged during the reporting period with details as follows (all amounts exclude applicable goods and services tax):

1. Kerbside waste stream audit (EC Sustainable) Total project fees approved

Expenditure for the reporting period

Start date End Date

$24,750 $24,750 4/7/2013 16/12/2013

2. Assessment of waste and resource recovery infrastructure in the Goulburn

Valley (Blue Environment)

Total project fees approved


Start date End Date

$36,500 $36,500 28/4/2014 31/7/2014

3. Organic waste biosecurity risk assessment. (Blue Environment).



Start date End Date

$15,000 $15,000 3/4/2014 31/7/2014

4. Murrundindi Shire organic waste options assessment. (Impact Blue). Total project fees approved


Start date End Date

$ 17,500 $17,500 17/4/2014 13/6/2014

5. Goulburn Valley Litter Directions Paper. (Cosson Consulting)



Start date End Date

$15,000 $15,000 6/12/2014 31/7/2014

6. Review of Hildene Landfill as a ‘Hub of State Importance’. (Hyder).



Start date End Date

$13,475 $13,475 23/4/2014 16/6/2014

6.8 NUMBER AND VALUE OF CONSULTANCIES LESS THAN $10,000 In 2013-14, there were two consultancies engaged during the year, where the total fees payable to the consultants was less than $10 000. The total expenditure incurred during 2013-14 in relation to these consultancies was $15,027 (excl. GST). 6.9 DISCLOSURE OF MAJOR CONTRACTS Resource GV did not enter into any contracts greater than $10 million in value during the reporting period.

6.10 COMPLIANCE WITH DATAVIC ACCESS POLICY

In August 2012 the Victorian Government released the DataVic Access Policy, which enables the sharing of Government data at no, or minimal, cost to users. Government data from all agencies will be progressively supplied in a machine-readable format that will minimise access costs and maximise use and reuse. There were no DataVic Access Policy achievements during the reporting period.

6.11 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Revenue and expense transactions

There were no revenue and expense transactions between the entity and responsible persons and related parties during the period.

Amounts payable and receivable

Aggregate amounts receivable from and payable to responsible persons or their responsible person related parties: NIL

Loans made to responsible persons and related parties

NIL Other transactions

Related party transactions requiring disclosure under the Direction of the Minister for Finance have been considered and there are no matters to report.

6.12 STATEMENT BY WASTE MANAGEMENT GROUP DIRECTORS We hereby state that, in our opinion, the information set out in this operations report fairly and accurately represents the performance and compliance status of the Group during the Reporting period ended 31 July 2014. I further certify that the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group has risk management processes in place consistent with the Australian/New Zealand Risk Management Standard and an internal control system is in place that enables the executive to understand, manage and satisfactorily control risk exposures. The audit committee verifies this assurance and that the risk profile of the Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group has been critically reviewed within the last 13 months. At the time of signing these financial statements, we are not aware of any circumstances that would render any particulars included in the operations report to be misleading.

Board Chairperson

Director Greg Toll

Shepparton (Date)

25 Aug 2014

Board Deputy Chairperson

Director Wendy Buck

Shepparton (Date)

25 Aug 2014

6.13 FINANCIAL REPORT 2013 / 2014

6.14 INDEPENDENT AUDIT REPORT

annual report 2013 / 2014€¦ · in november 2013, resource gv welcomed a milestone announcement...

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