The review of the “Defence Accountability Framework”, by Professor Rufus Black, in the Executive Summary, said:-
Defence has a complex accountability system that has evolved over many years. It has its strengths and weaknesses, however Defence has reached a point in its evolution where there is a strong case to redesign its accountability system
Current arrangements are under stress and their failure damages Defence. This stress is manifested in poor outcomes for Defence. Recent examples include: delivery failures for capability projects; non-compliance with AusTender reporting; poor or inappropriate procurement decision-making; poor outcomes in pay for Special Forces and a lack of cost consciousness in the management of day-to-day activity.
Current accountability arrangements also constrain leadership capability and management capacity by reducing the ability of decision makers to exercise strategic control over the construction and implementation of decisions.
In total contrast, government departments funding, directly supplying and regulating services for people with a disability have little or no accountability framework to review. They need an effective accountability framework. The above negative factors in Defence, are very relevant to government direct and indirect services for people with a disability, especially those with an intellectual or multiple disability.
Perhaps Professor Black can be encouraged to review the accountability and governance of services across Australia for people with a disability, especially those where government departments are directly and indirectly involved.
DEFENCE REVIEW LINK
