APY Executive

In reply to the Hon. S.G. WADE (2 November 2016).

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Employment, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, Minister for Manufacturing and Innovation, Minister for Automotive Transformation, Minister for Science and Information Economy): I have been advised:

The matter of quorum and complaints to Fair Work Australia are a matter for APY.

I am advised that the Department of State Development - Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Division has provided a range of measures to support the APY Executive Board. These include:

Facilitating an independent review of the APY Land Rights Act.

Arranging for governance training to be provided to the current board members on three occasions since their election in May 2015.

Engaging KPMG to review and assess APY financial management and compliance;

Engaging Ernst & Young to review all 2014-15 government transactions and identify areas for improvement; and

Arranging for the Crown Solicitor’s Office to deliver a legislative compliance session to the APY Executive Board on 6 December 2016. However, this was postponed due to severe weather conditions. It is anticipated the training will be provided to the newly formed board members in the near future.

I am advised that APY have improved their accountability and transparency, particularly in regard to financial controls.

Members would also be aware that amendments to the APY Land Rights Act came into operation on 1 January 2017. These amendments have been designed to improve governance and administration within the APY Lands through key reforms which include the establishment of minimum eligibility criteria for board members and providing for gender balance on the board.

New board members have been elected on 5 April 2017, and I look forward to working with them.