November 2003

Department seeks agency feedback

Funded agencies have been invited to comment on a proposed Agency Continuous Improvement and Monitoring Framework.

The draft framework is the latest step in the Department’s Agency Performance Monitoring and Improvement (APMI) project.

The project aims to develop an agency performance policy framework consistent with the Partnership Agreement, while providing appropriate assurances for the Department and Government about the performance and viability of funded organisations.

The APMI project had its first phase of consultation in April/May 2003.

Funded organisations were asked to provide comments about current Department performance monitoring and practical suggestions for improvement.

Focus groups of funded organisations and Department staff were held across Victoria.

A focus group was also held with peak bodies.

The resulting draft framework proposes a minimal monitoring regime for most funded agencies in keeping with the principles of trust and partnership.

The framework also proposes the Department work more closely with key funded organisations to improve their performance using a continuous improvement approach.

All funded organisations may use the continuous improvement infrastructure.

The framework has strategies to reduce the reporting burden for funded agencies and will achieve a more consistent, less intrusive approach.

The draft framework will apply to all non-government organisations funded through service agreements and community health centres not connected to hospitals.

The draft framework does not apply to hospitals, ambulance services and local government.

A copy of the framework is available from www.dhs.vic.gov.au/fac.

Feedback will inform revisions to the framework and its tools.

• For further information contact Project Manager Zoe Baker on 9616 2573 (Tuesday to Thursday), email Zoe.Baker@dhs.vic.gov.au or Project Officer Susan Whitelaw 9616 2733 (Monday to Friday), email Susan.Whitelaw@dhs.vic.gov.au. A consultation report summarising the focus group feedback is available from the project team.