The council meeting focused on reviewing various reports and audits, discussing the internal audit plan for the upcoming year, and addressing specific issues such as treasury management and cybersecurity. The meeting also included discussions on the effectiveness of current risk management strategies and the allocation of resources for internal audits.

1. Approval of Corporate Risk Report: The council reviewed and approved the corporate risk report, which included discussions on the adequacy of current risk scoring matrices. Some council members expressed concerns about the need for more granularity in risk scoring to better differentiate between levels of risk. The decision to maintain the current matrix was made with the intention to review it next year. This decision implies a status quo for now but opens the door for future adjustments based on the evolving needs of the council.

2. Quarterly Internal Audit Report Update: The council received the quarterly internal audit report, which highlighted areas of substantial assurance and areas needing improvement, such as community safety and homelessness services. The discussion also touched on the need for follow-up audits in areas where previous audits had identified significant issues. The approval of this report underscores the council's ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability in its operations.

3. Draft Internal Audit Plan for 24-25: The council approved the draft internal audit plan for the next fiscal year, which outlines the audits to be conducted across various council services. There was a notable discussion about the allocation of audit days, particularly concerning the adequacy of days allocated to areas like parking and employee health and safety. The plan's approval reflects the council's strategic approach to risk management and its prioritization of areas perceived as higher risk.

4. Exclusion of the Public and Press: The council decided to exclude the public and press for specific agenda items related to cybersecurity. This decision was made to prevent the disclosure of sensitive information that could potentially compromise security measures. The move highlights the council's cautious approach to handling sensitive information, balancing transparency with security needs.

Interestingly, the meeting revealed a proactive stance on issues like cybersecurity and risk management, indicating a forward-thinking approach to governance challenges. The discussions also reflected a keen awareness of the need for continuous improvement in internal controls and audit processes. The council meeting focused on reviewing various reports and audits, discussing the internal audit plan for the upcoming year, and addressing specific issues such as treasury management and corporate risks. The meeting also included a decision to exclude the public and press for a particular agenda item due to sensitive information.

1. Approval of Minutes: The council approved the minutes from the previous meeting held on November 29, 2023. There were no objections or amendments suggested, indicating agreement on the recorded outcomes of the last meeting.

2. Quarterly Internal Audit Report Update: The council received a report detailing seven new audits, with varying levels of assurance. Discussions centered on specific audits like payroll, community safety, and homelessness, where concerns were raised about the implementation of recommendations and the need for follow-up audits. The decision to accept the report suggests a continued focus on improving internal controls and risk management.

3. Draft Internal Audit Plan for 24-25: The council approved the internal audit plan for the next fiscal year, which outlines the areas to be audited and the allocation of resources. There was a discussion about the prioritization of audits, particularly the need for more focus on employee health and safety following a previous audit that showed limited assurance. The approval of the plan indicates a strategic approach to addressing risk and compliance across various council functions.

4. Exclusion of the Public and Press: The council voted to exclude the public and press from the discussion of a sensitive agenda item related to cybersecurity. This decision underscores the council's need to discuss sensitive security issues privately to prevent potential risks associated with public disclosure.

Interestingly, the meeting revealed concerns about historical issues at Dane Park depot, suggesting ongoing challenges with waste management and governance. This issue highlighted the need for robust oversight and possibly foreshadowed future audits or investigations into council operations.