office of the governor annual report 2013 – 2014...the office of the governor annual report...

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNORANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Aim of Report

The Office of the Governor Annual Report 2013–2014 is an integral part of the Office of the Governor’s corporate governance framework and describes the achievements, performance, outlook and financial position of the Office for the financial year. The Annual Report is a key accountability document and the principal way in which the Office reports on activities and provides a full and complete picture of its performance to Parliament and the wider community.

The Report details the objectives, activities and performance of the Office during the period 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014 and includes information and images that illustrate the many activities the Office undertakes to provide executive, personal, administrative and logistical support to the Governor and to manage the Government House Estate.

The Office of the Governor advises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people that this Annual Report may contain images of people who have died. The Office does not wish to cause distress to any Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members.

To obtain information about the content of this report, please contact:

Air Commodore Mark Gower OAM Official Secretary Office of the Governor, Queensland

GPO Box 434 Brisbane Qld 4001

Telephone: (07) 3858 5700 Facsimile: (07) 3858 5701 Email: [email protected]

Information about the activities of the Queensland Governor and the operations of the Office of the Governor is available at the following internet address: www.govhouse.qld.gov.au

Internet annual report: http://www.govhouse.qld.gov.au/office-of-the-governor/news-publications/annual-reports.aspx

Copyright and ISSN

© The State of Queensland (Office of the Governor) 2014.

Copyright protects this publication except for purposes permitted by the Copyright Act.

Reproduction by whatever means is prohibited without the prior written permission of the accountable officer.

ISSN 1837-2775

Cover image

Fernberg’s foyer features a circular pedestal table from the Victorian era with elaborately carved cabriole legs and a walnut veneer decorated with intricate floral marquetry.

The Honourable Fiona Simpson MPSpeaker of the Legislative AssemblyParliament HouseGeorge Street

BRISBANE QLD 4000

Dear Madam Speaker

I am pleased to present to you the Office of the Governor Annual Report 2013–2014.

I certify that this Annual Report:

• complies with the prescribed requirements of the Financial Accountability Act 2009 and the Financial and Performance Management Standard 2009; and

• reflects the achievements of the Office in providing an effective and accountable agency which supports the Governor of Queensland.

Yours sincerely

Mark Gower OAM Official Secretary

30 September 2014

Table of Contents

02Official Secretary’s SummaryYear in Review

Outlook for 2014-2015

06Office OverviewCorporate Objectives

08Corporate GovernanceManagement Processes

Management Structure

Decision-Making and Advisory Structures

12Report on PerformanceConstitutional and Legal

Ceremonial

Community Engagement

Preserving the Government House Estate

Effective Management

19Financial OverviewExpenditure 2013-14

Consultancies

Public Liability

Waste Management

Statement of Assurance

20Financial StatementsStatement of Comprehensive Income

Statement of Financial Position

Statement of Changes in Equity

Statement of Cash Flows

Notes To and Forming Part of the Financial Statements 2013-14

Management Certificate

Independent Auditor’s Report

ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

[01]

The 2013-2014 reporting period marked Her Excellency Penelope Wensley AC’s final year in office. During this year, the Office of the Governor continued to provide high quality professional services to support the Governor of Queensland’s busy program of constitutional, legal, ceremonial and civic duties.

During the Governor’s short absences, the Office also supported the official programs of Acting and Deputy Governors the Honourable Chief Justice Paul de Jersey AC and the Honourable Justices Margaret McMurdo AC, Catherine Holmes, John Muir, John Byrne AO RFD, and Margaret Wilson.

A key coordination effort for the Office this year was to facilitate the Governor’s extensive program of travel to communities in regional and remote areas of Queensland. A Royal visit in April 2014 by Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge was another highlight.

As Patron of 209 Queensland groups, the Governor used her position of advocacy to undertake 160 associated commitments. The Office continued to work closely with patronage and other organisations to manage substantial administrative and logistical responsibilities, in relation to correspondence, briefings, and event management.

The planning and management of the transition of Governors in July 2014 was a priority for the Office during the reporting period, with significant work undertaken to coordinate farewell visits and receptions, including a final call on Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Comprehensive briefing material for the 26th Governor was developed, and ceremonial transition arrangements made, together with several minor refurbishment projects.

Official Secretary’s Summary

The Office continued with its corporate governance agenda during the year, with a particular focus on modernising and improving IT, security and training systems to improve processes across a number of business areas. The small team of Office of the Governor employees provided high-level service and support to facilitate the Governor’s responsibilities during the period.

Highlights of the Office’s work during the year include:

ɶ coordinating a program of travel and engagement with communities throughout Queensland;

ɶ facilitating the Governor’s patronage of 209 community groups and coordinating a program of engagement including visits, speeches, receptions, and celebrations of milestones and anniversaries;

ɶ coordinating receptions and events hosted at Government House including a program of investiture ceremonies, and the associated administration, logistics and hospitality of these events;

ɶ providing high-level advice and support to the Governor in the constitutional duties of weekly Executive Council meetings for the 54th Queensland Parliament, signing Bills for Royal Assent, handling petitions, processing correspondence relating to constitutional and legal requirements, and conducting the swearing-in of Ministers;

YEAR IN REVIEW

Mark Gower OAM Official Secretary

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR, QUEENSLAND

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ɶ providing public access to the Government House Estate through a program of events (Open Days on Australia Day and Queensland Day) and a visitors’ program that included tours of the Estate with volunteer guides;

ɶ supporting a visit to Brisbane by Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as part of an Australian Royal visit;

ɶ rolling out an ongoing program of work to manage, maintain and improve facilities across the heritage-listed Government House Estate, in conjunction with the Department of Housing and Public Works;

ɶ ongoing implementation of the Bushland Management Plan to preserve and enhance the bushland areas of the Estate;

ɶ continuing to implement the recommendations of the Safety Management System audit reports and the final phase of the Government House Security Review to ensure security operations, infrastructure and personnel meet best practice standards;

ɶ finalising and implementing the 2013-2018 Strategic Plan;

ɶ continuing to deliver administrative, financial management, customer relationship management and corporate governance improvements by modernising processes, systems and policies; and

ɶ equipping staff with contemporary knowledge and skills that reflect the core values of the Office of the Governor, through a program of core skills training.

Horticultural Coordinator Mr Richard Symmonds

The official residence of Queensland Governors since 1910, Fernberg is an elegant Brisbane landmark. The Estate’s heritage-listed buildings, lush sub-tropical gardens and native bushland are situated across 14 hectares of land purchased by the Queensland Government in 1911.

Since April 2008, Horticultural Coordinator Richard Symmonds has led a small team of gardeners who, together, have helped shape and preserve the Estate’s unique character. Richard coordinates the landscape maintenance and capital works activities in accordance with the formal and bushland management plans. He leads the preparations of the grounds for special events, including Open Days, to ensure the Estate looks at its best. He also provides advice on environmental issues and manages public enquiries relating to the grounds and gardens.

Richard’s highlights in this role include renovating the historic Rose Rockery and rose picking gardens with some 250 roses, and helping develop and implement a Bushland Management Plan. Over the years, the horticulture team has also discovered and recorded a number of new bird and reptile species on the Estate.

Richard feels privileged to be among the few head gardeners who have been charged with guiding the landscape maintenance of this historic Queensland Estate.

“The opportunity to be involved at a high level in both formal and bushland work is unique and rewarding. The team is building on past traditions and history within the Estate and using current materials and processes. Our priority is to pass the gardens on to future generations safe in the knowledge that the Estate has maintained its integrity and iconic cultural value.”

Richard undertook his studies at Kew, Royal Botanic Gardens in the United Kingdom and prior to working for the Office of the Governor, was the Horticultural Assets Manager for the heritage-listed Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, and also worked at the Durban Botanic Gardens in South Africa.

PRESERVING A SENSE OF PLACE


[03]

In February 2014 the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC was announced as the 26th Governor of Queensland. Therefore 2014-2015 will be focussed largely on activities associated with establishing the Governor in his role. The Office will have primary responsibility for implementing new processes and procedures to support the incoming Governor, including an initial range of briefings, visits and a review of patronage and other civic support activities.

In the coming year, the Office will:

ɶ provide expert and responsive advice to the Governor in support of constitutional, civic and ceremonial responsibilities as the representative of Queensland’s Head of State;

ɶ develop an extensive program of regional travel and community engagements to maximise opportunities for Queenslanders to meet the Governor;

ɶ support opportunities for the Governor to promote Queensland to high-level State visitors;

ɶ preserve and conserve the heritage and horticultural assets of the Government House Estate for the future;

OUTLOOK FOR 2014–2015

ɶ arrange and deliver an overseas visit program to promote Queensland to G20 nations and to establish the 26th Governor’s contact and credentials with the Palace;

ɶ support centenary of ANZAC activities in Queensland;

ɶ develop and implement a media strategy to increase community understanding of the Governor’s role and associated program; and

ɶ deliver a Corporate Governance Framework as part of best practice fiscal responsibility.

The Office will continue to work in conjunction with the Department of Housing and Public Works to prioritise the preservation and conservation of Government House and the Estate and to implement an ongoing program of capital works and maintenance. Work to enhance equitable access to the House is expected to commence in 2014-2015 and this may affect some Government House operations. The Office will refine operational and audit plans and undertake further work on a business continuity plan, in line with the 26th Governor’s priorities, to ensure continued improvements are made to corporate governance.

Official Secretary’s Summary

As a heritage-listed, State-owned residence, sitting on 14 hectares of land, Fernberg is an important Queensland landmark.


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One of the Governor’s key roles is to officiate at important ceremonial and celebratory occasions and commemorations. One notable event during 2014 was the 150th anniversary of the QPS.

On 28 February 2014, the Governor attended the ceremonial parade for the consecration and presentation of the QPS Banner, recognising the unrelenting dedication, skill and professionalism of the QPS in keeping Queensland communities safe.

The Office of the Governor has enjoyed a long and close working relationship with the QPS, which provides a range of services to support the Governor’s work, including providing transport and advice in remote areas, escorts for ceremonial events such as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day, and logistical support and close protection at major public events such as Royal visits and State funerals.

This special connection between the QPS and Government House has been further enhanced since 2009, when a full time Aide-de-Camp (ADC) role was established to work alongside two full time civilian Aides. The ADC role is performed each year by one of the QPS’s finest commissioned officers, and provides the Governor with invaluable support.

CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF THE QUEENSLAND POLICE SERVICE (QPS)

Six ADCs have undertaken this role to date, providing assistance with planning and organisation of the Governor’s program, accompanying the Governor on official duties, and providing a vital link to a diversity of community organisations. The ADCs perform their duties with the highest level of integrity and maintain ongoing, respectful and trusted relationships with both the Office, and the Governor.

“In the Queensland of today we are served by one of the very finest police organisations—a sophisticated, modern organisation, led and staffed by men and women of the highest integrity, whose professionalism, dedication and commitment to community and to achieving the highest standards of policing is evident in everything they do.”

— From the Governor’s remarks at the 150th Anniversary Celebrations (QP150) Official Launch and Ceremonial Parade for the Consecration and Presentation of the Queensland Police Service Banner

Her Excellency presented the QPS Banner to Constable Warren Moyle, honouring close to 35,000 officers who have been sworn to serve since the QPS was formed on 1 January 1864.


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Office Overview

The Constitution of Queensland 2001 provides that there must be a Governor of Queensland who is appointed by the Sovereign. As such, the Governor is the personal representative of The Queen who is the Head of State in Queensland, and is authorised and required to do and execute all matters that pertain to her office, according to law.

The powers of the Governor are derived from the Commission of Appointment issued by The Queen and are prescribed in legal or constitutional terms in various pieces of constitutional legislation and in a number of Acts of the State Parliament.

Queensland’s Constitution allows the Governor to appoint Ministers and to summon and dissolve Parliament. It also establishes the Executive Council over which the Governor presides.

The Governor’s primary constitutional responsibility is to ensure the continuance of a stable Government in Queensland that commands the support of the Parliament. The Governor does not participate in the political process.

Similarly, the Office of the Governor is a non-political, independent entity, established to provide executive, personal, administrative and logistical support to the Governor as she fulfils her constitutional, representational, ceremonial and civic responsibilities. The Office also maintains the Government House Estate, in partnership with the Department of Housing and Public Works.

The Office of the Governor directly contributes to maintaining a stable and effective government by providing professional support that enables the Governor to undertake her constitutional responsibilities as the representative of the Head of State.

The corporate objectives of the Office of the Governor reflect the six goals central to the Office’s Strategic Plan 2013-2018:

• Constitutional and Legal

Provide executive support to enable the Governor to fulfil constitutional and legal responsibilities, including assenting to legislation, issuing writs for elections, swearing-in Government Ministers, opening Parliament, considering petitions for the Governor to exercise the power of the Royal Prerogative of Mercy, and presiding over meetings of Executive Council.

• Ceremonial

Support the Australian Honours and Awards System and other award programs, and attend military and commemorative ceremonies.

• Community Engagement

Provide a diverse range of opportunities for Queensland organisations and members of the community to visit Government House and to learn about the Governor’s role. Facilitate the Governor’s travel to regional and remote centres and support organisations of which the Governor is Patron.

CORPORATE OBJECTIVES

The interior of many of Fernberg’s rooms feature decorative cornices with botanical embellishments. Ceiling roses surrounding the lights and chandeliers have been restored and painted in pastel colours to highlight the complexity of their design.


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CORPORATE OBJECTIVES

• Promoting Queensland

Assist the Governor’s activities that highlight and promote Queensland business, produce, culture and trade through hospitality and attendance at events. Support the Governor in hosting international dignitaries and undertaking interstate and international travel to promote Queensland’s interests.

• Effective Management

Strengthen the Corporate Governance Framework to continue to improve performance, capability, accountability and value-for-money service delivery using effective technology and resources.

• Preserving Government House and the Estate

Maintain Government House as an official State residence by conserving its heritage-listed buildings, grounds and gardens, and undertaking appropriate maintenance, security, workplace health and safety, and horticultural tasks.

TIRELESS COMMITMENT

Aide-de-Camp to the Governor Acting Inspector Christian Ferguson

As Aide-de-Camp (ADC), Christian Ferguson works as part of a small team of Aides that provides the Governor with day-to-day planning, operational, administrative, logistical, and personal support. The ADC role is pivotal in helping the Governor to fulfil a busy program of civic, ceremonial and constitutional duties.

Working alongside two civilian Aides and with support from a team of eight Honorary ADCs from the Australian Defence Force and from the Queensland Police Service, Christian plans and liaises with relevant stakeholders to facilitate the Governor’s involvement in events throughout Queensland, and provides on-ground support at these events. The ADC may also represent the Governor at official or ceremonial occasions when required.

As Christian has discovered, the role can be as varied as supporting the Governor at a Royal Reception in Brisbane, to changing a flat tyre in 40-degree heat in remote outback Queensland during a visit to drought-affected communities. Yet he is grateful for the unique opportunities, experiences and challenges.

“To serve as the ADC to the Governor is a privilege. While it is a demanding role with very high expectations, I have been afforded the rare perspective of seeing the State through the eyes of the Governor. I have travelled to places I might otherwise have never been, and have met the most extraordinary people who remind me of all that is truly good and worthwhile about our society, living in Queensland and being Australian.”

Christian joined the Office of the Governor in November 2013 and brings 22 years of experience in operational policing in Queensland and overseas to the role.

“Effective policing requires sound judgement, attention to detail, patience, resilience, adaptability and an ability to relate to people from all walks of life—all attributes also required in my work as ADC. However, the role has also allowed me to hone my communication, event management, protocol and high-level planning skills, and provide the rare chance to get to know communities around the State, first hand. These experiences will only serve to make me a better police officer as a result.”


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To provide effective support to the Governor, the Office of the Governor uses a Corporate Governance Framework that guides organisational structure, planning and decision making, management standards and policies, and monitoring, reporting and evaluation processes.

The Framework:

ɶ provides good governance principles for day-to-day work that improve accountability, compliance and performance;

ɶ helps the Office deliver efficient and professional support to the Governor; and

ɶ guides the Office to ensure legal obligations and responsibilities are met.

MANAGEMENT PROCESSESThe Office of the Governor’s management processes provide the basis for effective corporate governance and include:

Planning

ɶ Strategic Plan – the organisation’s mission statement, goals and objectives;

ɶ Operational Plan – the annual program of activities which deliver the objectives of the Strategic Plan;

ɶ Business Plan – each Business Unit’s contribution to achieving the objectives of the annual Operational Plan;

ɶ Specific plans (including a Communication and Engagement Plan); and

ɶ Collaborative plans developed and delivered with external partners (including the Bushland Management Plan, Strategic Maintenance Plan, Conservation and Curatorial Plan, and Water Efficiency Management Plan).

Performance Management and Evaluation

ɶ Key Performance Indicators – reporting actuals against planned results/outcomes;

ɶ Quarterly Business Unit Reports;

ɶ Risk Matrix and Annual Audit Plan; and

ɶ Project Evaluation Reporting.

Resource Management

ɶ Policies and procedures for managing financial, human and information resources;

ɶ Annual Procurement Plan;

ɶ Monthly/Quarterly Budget Reports;

ɶ Employee Performance Planning and Development Plans;

ɶ Annual Core Training Plan; and

ɶ Record-keeping Operating Procedures.

MANAGEMENT STRUCTUREAt 30 June 2014, the Office of the Governor employed 43 full-time equivalent employees across executive, professional, administrative and operational bands.

The Official Secretary is the Office of the Governor’s Chief Executive and Accountable Officer, in accordance with the Financial Accountability Act 2009. The Office employs a Chief Financial Officer and a nominated head of Internal Audit who is the Deputy Official Secretary.

Corporate Governance

The Coat of Arms of the British Royal family is displayed on the gates to the Government House Estate as a symbol that the Governor is The Queen’s representative in this State. The Arms features a shield supported by a lion and a unicorn with the sovereign’s motto Dieu et mon Droit (“God and my right”) displayed on the base.


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Two strategic advisory groups, a management group and various project-specific working groups support the Official Secretary.

ɶ The Executive Management Group is an internal agenda-setting and decision-making body.

ɶ The Internal Audit and Risk Management Committee (chaired by the Deputy Official Secretary) provides advice on the efficiency and effectiveness of internal controls, implementation of audit recommendations, and systems and processes to address risk.

ɶ The Workplace Health and Safety Committee (chaired by the Facilities and Operations Manager) advises and monitors workplace health and safety issues.

ɶ The Management Group is comprised of managers who provide specialist knowledge and guidance on the Office’s key service-delivery areas and who represent the views of staff at meetings, contribute to strategic decision making, and communicate information and decisions to their teams.

ɶ In addition, project-specific working groups and sub-committees are assembled when required to work through major operational and strategic issues relevant to the day-to-day functioning of the Office of the Governor, including, in 2013-2014, the Open Day organisational group and Transition of Governors Working Group.

Air Commodore Mark Gower OAM, MAICD

Air Commodore Gower was appointed to the role of Official Secretary in 2008 following a successful 30-year career as a senior officer in the Royal Australian Air Force. He has held a number of company director appointments on government, commercial and not-for-profit boards. Air Commodore Gower is the Governor’s most senior adviser and is the designated accountable officer within the Office.

Ms Cecily Pearson MAICD, MIIA (Aust)

Ms Pearson has been the Deputy Official Secretary of the Office of the Governor since July 2008 and is responsible to the Official Secretary for the corporate, administrative and operational activities of the organisation. Ms Pearson has a background in policy, projects and administration in state and federal government.

Ms Rosie Turnbull CPA, GAICD

Ms Turnbull joined the Office of the Governor in March 2009, and was appointed Chief Financial Officer in July 2009. She previously held various roles in state and federal government.

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT GROUP

Membership of the Executive Management Group is:

ɶ Official Secretary Air Commodore Mark Gower OAM

ɶ Deputy Official Secretary Ms Cecily Pearson

ɶ Chief Financial Officer Ms Rosie Turnbull


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Measuring Corporate Governance

To measure the impact of the Corporate Governance Framework and to facilitate ongoing improvements, the Office uses the following performance standards.

Governance Framework Standards

ɶ All governance legislation, requirements and mechanisms are accurately described.

ɶ The governance structure reflects an appropriate level of integrity (e.g. independence).

ɶ The method of communicating and reporting against goals and strategies is clearly articulated.

ɶ The Framework is appropriate for the Office’s scale and context.

Governance Practice Standards

ɶ The Office complies with all governance requirements (exception reporting).

ɶ The Office’s financial statements receive unqualified audit opinion.

DECISION-MAKING AND ADVISORY STRUCTURES

ɶ Goals, priorities, procurement and resource allocation are aligned.

ɶ Performance information guides strategic decisions and resource allocation.

ɶ Progress and performance on risk responses is monitored and reported.

ɶ All staff participate in performance planning and reviews.

The Office of the Governor conducts merit-based recruitment and is committed to equal opportunity in employment. During 2013-2014 staff turnover was approximately 16 per cent.

Targeted recruitment practices, appropriate induction processes, a performance planning and development framework (including complaints and grievance resolution policies), industrial agreements, human resource policies consistent with those in the public sector, and a structured annual training program continue to provide a stable working environment for Office of the Governor employees.

Corporate Governance

The Governor accompanied Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they greeted the almost 10,000-strong crowd gathered at South Bank during their visit to Queensland in April 2014.


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Throughout her tenure as Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency Penelope Wensley AC gave the highest priority to her speeches, framing each one carefully for the event and its audience. These speeches were also the narrative of her tenure, of the events of importance to the community over the six years of her term and their place in the sweep of Queensland’s history.

Within them you can see the rhythms of the vice-regal year and the enduring obligations undertaken by the Governor on behalf of the people of the State. Through them you can see thousands of Queenslanders, in every corner of the State, their cares and concerns, their pride and their sorrows—all reflected and acknowledged by the Governor, representative of Queensland’s Head of State, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

As with all speeches, the credit belongs to the one who was actually in the arena, who put her name to the words spoken. But from the very beginning, Her Excellency assembled a Research and Writing Unit within the Office of the Governor—a small team of remarkable diversity and versatility that compiled the stories, the facts and the figures, which were brought to life in each speech.

The team listened with care to the State’s historians, to the community workers and to people working at the coalface of charities, and brought their stories into the light. They helped articulate the Governor’s role, its constitutional, ceremonial and civic aspects, and to explain it to the wider community.

With history and poetry, with words gleaned from literature, from music and headlines alike, they helped shape the stories of this period in our State’s public life.

RESEARCHING AND WRITING: A GOVERNOR’S LEGACY

During 2013-2014 the Governor presented or provided 236 speeches and official messages for a diverse range of groups throughout Queensland marking ceremonial, milestone and other significant community occasions.

Passionate Queenslanders all, they worked to help the Governor serve the State of Queensland as members of the Office of the Governor’s Research and Writing Unit 2008-2014:

ɶ Louise Ahern

ɶ Judith Anderson OAM

ɶ Kit Bennetts

ɶ Frances Cruickshank

ɶ Libby Collett

ɶ Michael Otago

ɶ Richard Palk

ɶ Sonia Uranishi

ɶ Jeremy Webb


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Report on PerformanceCONSTITUTIONAL AND LEGAL

The Governor of Queensland’s primary responsibility is to ensure that Queensland enjoys stable government and is governed in accordance with the Constitution. While not directly participating in the political process, the Governor performs a number of key constitutional duties, including presiding over meetings of the Executive Council and providing the approval required within the Constitution to give legal effect to many of the decisions and actions of Government. The Governor is also responsible for granting Royal Assent to Bills passed by Parliament, summoning and dissolving Parliament, appointing all Ministers of the Crown, and issuing writs for elections.

During 2013-2014 the Office provided high-level support to the Governor as she carried out her constitutional duties, including researching, planning and coordinating briefing materials, and extensive liaison with a range of organisations and government agencies.

The Governor’s notable constitutional and legal responsibilities during 2013-2014 included:

ɶ presiding over 50 meetings of the Executive Council (including two special sittings);

ɶ swearing-in one Minister of the State and their appointment to Executive Council and the appointment of three Assistant Ministers;

ɶ signing delegations for Acting Ministers;

ɶ assenting to 71 Bills presented by the Legislative Assembly of Queensland; and

ɶ considering 164 requests for the Governor’s intervention including petitions for pardon, commutation of sentence, remission of a fine or penalty, and protests.

The Office also provided extensive coordination, planning and support for Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s visit to Queensland in April 2014 as part of their tour of Australia and New Zealand. On Saturday 19 April 2014 (Easter Saturday), Their Royal Highnesses visited the RAAF Base Amberley and later attended a reception co-hosted by the Governor and the Premier of Queensland in Brisbane. The Governor also accompanied the couple as they greeted the almost 10,000-strong crowd gathered at South Bank.

During the year, the Office supported the Governor in hosting and attending numerous official functions and events in support of all levels of government. The Governor hosted receptions for the Queensland Police Service Commissioned Officers’ Mess and Queensland Government 2013 Export Week, and co-hosted a reception for Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with the Premier. The Governor also attended the State Reception to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the first South Sea Islanders; the National Police Remembrance Day Service; the Australia Day Flag Raising Ceremony; a morning tea hosted by Bundaberg Regional Council to commemorate the first anniversary of the 2013 floods; the Queensland Inspiring Women, Speaker’s Breakfast hosted by the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, the Hon. Fiona Simpson MP; a farewell reception hosted by the Mayor of Rockhampton Regional Council; and a farewell reception hosted by the Mayor of Ipswich. The Governor also met with a number of Government representatives during the period. Senior members of staff also represented the Governor at official government events including the National Police Remembrance Day Candlelight Vigil.

Government House records include the “Instructions to Our Trusty and Well beloved Sir George Ferguson Bowen” issued by Queen Victoria on 6 June 1859. Queensland is a constitutional monarchy, with the Queen as Head of State and the Governor as her representative. The monarch personally signs the document of appointment under seal.


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CEREMONIAL

The Governor officiates regularly at a range of important ceremonial and celebratory occasions and commemorations. Many of these ceremonies recognise the outstanding contributions Queensland citizens and organisations have made to their communities.

Each year, the Office provides extensive administrative and logistical support to the Governor to host a series of investiture ceremonies at Government House to confer awards and honours and to recognise and encourage hard-working volunteers and organisations. Her Excellency’s ceremonial role also includes representation at military parades, remembrance ceremonies and special occasions of State and national significance.

A large number of these ceremonies and receptions are hosted at Government House or in the grounds of the Estate, and the Office has a vital role in ensuring these events are well organised and strike an appropriate level of dignity, ceremony and hospitality.

During 2013–2014 the Governor:

ɶ hosted and officiated at 17 investiture ceremonies (including one in Townsville and two private ceremonies for terminally ill recipients in Townsville and Kilkivan) for 329 Queensland recipients of Australian Honours and Awards and 1,151 guests;

ɶ attended, hosted or supported a range of award ceremonies and events including: Girl Guides Queensland Annual Awards; Catholic Education Awards; Australian Institute of Company Directors Awards; Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame induction dinner; Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame Queensland Memory Awards; the Churchill Fellowship Awards; Royal Queensland Golf Club Heritage Day and awards presentation; National Trust of Queensland Heritage Awards; Scouts Queensland Adult Recognition Awards; Queensland Sportswoman of the Year Awards; Boys and Girls Brigade Queen’s Badge Awards; MS Queensland Annual Awards; the Spinal Injuries Association

2013 Inclusive Community Champions State Awards; Autism Queensland Awards; United Nations Association of Australia Queensland Community Awards; RBWH Foundation Research Grant Awards; Croquet Queensland prize ceremony; Guide Dogs Queensland graduation ceremony; Queensland Merino Sheep Breeders’ Association major champions judging; Royal Australasian College of Physicians Awards; Combined Patriotic Societies’ Queen’s Birthday Scholarship Awards dinner; and Gold Coast Business Events Ambassador Program Awards.

ɶ attended the ANZAC Day Commemoration Committee ANZAC Day Dawn Service; the 99th ANZAC Day Parade; the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of the Band of the 1st Regiment, Royal Regiment of Australian Artillery; the opening of the 25th/49th Battalion, The Royal Queensland Regiment’s (25/49 RQR) new facility at Greenbank; the RAAF Base Amberley for the arrival of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge; the Royal Australian Corps of Transport 40th Anniversary Parade and the Bomber Command Memorial Service; the Bomber Command Commemorative Service; the 2013 National Conference of the Legacy Clubs and memorial service; the 2013 Remembrance Day Ceremony; the Naval Association of Australia, Queensland Annual General Meeting; and the ANZAC Day Commemoration Committee of Queensland Students’ Commemoration Ceremony. The Official Secretary, Deputy Official Secretary and Aides-de-Camp represented Her Excellency at other commemoration ceremonies including at the Air Force Week Reception to celebrate 93rd birthday of the RAAF; the Caboolture War Memorial Remembrance Day; Australian-American Association 72nd Anniversary Memorial Service of the Battle of the Coral Sea; the 76th Annual Seafarers’ Wreath Laying Ceremony and Service of Worship; and the Returned Services League 2014 Indigenous Veterans Ceremony.


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The Governor serves the people of Queensland and uses her platform to advocate for equality and inclusion and to enhance the welfare and standing of the people of Queensland.

During 2013-2014, the Governor continued to support many organisations across the State through a comprehensive program of community engagement, and was Patron of 209 community organisations. The Office of the Governor coordinated a meaningful program of community engagement and maintained and developed extensive networks throughout Queensland that provided valuable opportunities for the Governor to participate in community events and programs.

The Office supported the Governor in hosting community events at Government House, and undertaking a high volume of planning, administrative and logistical work associated with Open Days and visits. The visit program to Government House, delivered by a team of volunteer guides and tailored for community and school groups, continued to prove popular, attracting 1,663 visitors. The Office also coordinated the despatch of 1,257 congratulatory letters to Queenslanders celebrating milestone birthdays and anniversaries.

The Governor hosts or attends many community events and is an active supporter of State, national and international conferences held in Queensland. In 2013-2014, the Office provided support to the Governor as she opened or presented keynote speeches at events including: the Australian Local Government Women’s Association Queensland conference; the Royal Queensland Art Society’s annual members’ exhibition; the Australian Campdraft Association national finals; Brisbane Open House; the Queensland Rural, Regional and Remote Women’s Network 20th Anniversary Conference; the Brisbane Grammar School International Young Leaders Forum; the Older Women’s

Network national conference; the United Nations Association of Australia (QLD) 2013 annual Peace Lecture; the 2013 YMCA Youth Parliament; The Half Dozen Group of Artists annual art exhibition; the Sorensen Wilson Room at the Museum of Nursing History; the Lions Clubs International President’s board meeting; the Lady Musgrave Trust Annual Forum on Services for Homeless Women; the Legacy Clubs 2013 National Conference; the 2013 Australian-Latin America Business Council Brisbane annual dinner; the Motor Neurone Disease Association State Conference; the Naval Association of Australia, Queensland Annual General Meeting; the Charleville, Toowoomba and Cairns Shows; the 2014 Red Shield Appeal for Queensland and Bundaberg; the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show; the Embroiderer’s Guild Queensland Biennial Exhibition; the Queensland-Shanghai Science and Technology Innovation Forum; and the Royal Society of Queensland Symposium and research fund launch.

The Governor also officiated and spoke at the official opening of a number of significant new buildings and facilities during the period including: the RNA Royal International Convention Centre; the Hinkler Central Shopping Centre (Bundaberg); the Shaftesbury Centre’s new ‘Arethusa’ campus; the new Global Change Institute Living Building; a new food packaging facility built by Endeavour Foundation; the Townsville Cruise and Defence Terminal at the Port of Townsville; Artslink Queensland’s new premises; the 25/49 Battalion’s new facility at Greenbank; the Freemasons Queensland Sir John Lavarack Visitors’ Room; the Australian Red Cross Cairns Wellbeing Centre; the new Science Facility at Moreton Bay College; the Brisbane Modern Art Gallery; the new Queensland Eye Institute and South Bank Day Hospital; the Rockhampton Grammar School’s new Primary Wing; and a new residential block of units for the Queensland Vasey Housing Auxiliary (War Widows’ Guild).

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Report on Performance

The Office coordinates the Governor’s comprehensive program of regional travel and community engagement throughout Queensland to maximise opportunities for Queenslanders to meet the Governor.


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The Governor also launched books and publications during the year including: ‘Harry Readford alias Captain Starlight’; ‘Locomotives of the Moreton Central Sugar Mill’; ‘Earth Hour’; ‘The Claimant’; ‘Kissed by a Croc’; and a book by the Queensland Braille Writing Association.

During 2013-2014, the Office coordinated the Governor’s involvement in and provided briefings and logistical support in relation to memorial services and receptions to commemorate: the 60th anniversary of Blue Care; the 150th anniversary of the Town of Harrisville; the Access Arts 30th birthday celebrations; the centenary of the Royal Historical Society of Queensland; the Hervey Bay Historical Society’s 150th anniversary; the 150th anniversary celebrations at Ipswich Grammar School; and the 75th anniversary of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.

The Office incorporates a wide range of community events in the Governor’s official program in order to promote a socially cohesive, mutually supportive and respectful Queensland.

In 2013-2014, as part of a program of community engagement, the Governor:

ɶ participated in 189 civic and community events;

ɶ engaged in 160 activities with organisations of which she is Patron (including all internal and external commitments);

ɶ presented or provided 236 speeches and official messages;

ɶ sent 1,257 letters of congratulations for 50th and 60th wedding anniversaries and 100th birthday celebrations; and

ɶ hosted an estimated 5,358 visitors to Government House on Open Days; 49 Government House Tour Groups comprising 1,663 participants; and 4,382 invited guests to Government House hosted receptions and events.

Senior Adviser Research & Writing Unit Ms Louise Ahern

As the representative of Queensland’s Head of State, and Patron of more than 200 community groups and organisations, the Governor attends and speaks at hundreds of functions, events and openings each year, and

provides written messages and forewords for countless special publications.

Not surprisingly, behind the scenes and within the Office of the Governor, a small team is busy researching, developing briefings and preparing draft speeches to support the Governor. During 2013-2014, Ms Louise Ahern was the longest-serving Senior Adviser within the Office of the Governor’s Research and Writing Unit (RWU), having joined the team in 2008.

Louise previously worked as an adviser to Federal Government ministers in the treasury, environment and education portfolios, and brought a wide range of experience to the role. However, the diversity of subjects addressed by the Governor’s program was of an order of magnitude far greater than she had ever expected—everything from country shows to State receptions!

“The Governor supports the work of an incredible variety of community-based organisations across Queensland—from the Cancer Council to the Country Women’s Association. Luckily, the great strength of the RWU is the diversity of work and life experience of its members. No matter what the occasion, or audience, whether the Governor was opening an international conference, launching an opera season or celebrating a historical milestone, there was always someone within the RWU who knew something, or could quickly find something about the subject matter.”

The Governor’s primary role is to maintain and strengthen Queensland’s system of constitutional government, and Louise considers it a great privilege to support the Governor’s work. She recalls a particularly memorable project as a member of the RWU when she was charged with modernising the Government House Library in partnership with the Parliamentary Library.

“Government House holds a broad and deep collection of local history, so it was important to catalogue it properly. Amazingly, hidden amongst the Office Bibles, we found the Bible upon which Sir Henry Abel-Smith, one of Queensland’s most popular Governors, was sworn in—it was such a special piece of Queensland’s vice-regal heritage to discover.”

LANGUAGE AND LEGACY


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PRESERVING THE GOVERNMENT HOUSE ESTATE

Queensland’s Government House, also known as Fernberg (German for distant mountain), has been the home and workplace of Queensland Governors since 1910. During 2013-2014, the Office of the Governor continued its careful and considered management of the Government House Estate, a heritage-listed State-owned residence surrounded by 14 hectares of gardens and grounds.

The Office of the Governor’s small team of horticultural specialists has primary responsibility for managing the natural heritage of the gardens and grounds. The Office also works in partnership with the Department of Housing and Public Works to maintain Fernberg and the other Estate buildings, delivering an annual program of capital works, maintenance, security and workplace health and safety programs.

During 2013-2014, the Office undertook the following key Estate-related activities:

ɶ ongoing implementation of the Bushland Management Plan to preserve and enhance the bushland areas of the Estate, including establishing a new pathway through the bromeliad gardens;

ɶ implementing the third of three phases of the Government House Security Review to ensure security operations meet best practice;

ɶ furthering plans for the equitable access project to ensure persons with a disability will have equitable access to Government House building and facilities;

ɶ continuing to implement the recommendations of the Safety Management System audit including an assessment of the Office of the Governor’s general compliance with the requirements of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011;

ɶ undertaking a program of works, in conjunction with the Department of Housing and Public Works, to update and maintain Government House facilities;

ɶ preparing for major events including the annual Twilight Carols concert and two Government House Open Days (January and June) and a range of onsite functions and ceremonies;

ɶ developing interpretative and directional signage to provide information and to assist visitors to Government House identify key areas of interest on the Estate including the Governor Goodwin woodland walks;

ɶ undertaking a wide range of horticultural projects and activities to maintain the gardens and grounds of the heritage Estate in line with the Government House Queensland Report on the Conservation of the Estate and the Bushland Management Plan;

ɶ planning and preparing a program of work to Government House in preparation for the transition of Governors; and

ɶ ongoing monitoring of alternate power sources that reduce the footprint of the Estate and offset current operating costs.

One of two distinct zones on the 14-hectare Government House Estate, the formal zone includes landscaped areas of turf and lawn, grassed embankments, ornamental plantings and scattered trees.

Report on Performance


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The Office of the Governor’s Strategic Plan provides a framework to guide and measure the performance of the Office and its service delivery to support the Governor and provide effective stewardship of the Government House Estate. The Strategic Plan also articulates the Office’s corporate values, goals, strategic activity and performance measures.

During 2013-2014 the Office of the Governor:

ɶ delivered and reviewed its Operational Plan ensuring its alignment with the goals, objectives and values of the new Strategic Plan (2013-2018), implemented during the period;

ɶ adopted best practice approaches and instilled a culture of continuous improvement;

ɶ renewed key policy frameworks to ensure consistency with relevant legislative frameworks;

ɶ continued to update priority standard operating procedures to define roles, enhance coordination between business units, and provide effective succession planning;

ɶ identified risks to feed into an ongoing business continuity plan;

ɶ reviewed business processes supporting technology rolled out in the previous period and developed new processes to support technology upgrades;

ɶ implemented the final phase of a Bushland Management Plan to guide the sensitive development and regeneration of the significant natural bushland on the Estate;

EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT

ɶ provided training and development to ensure all employees are well equipped to deliver and develop their role in the Office and used a standardised approach to Equal Employment Opportunity, Workplace Health and Safety, and Code of Conduct policies and procedures;

ɶ monitored the Estate-wide Safety Management System to meet legislative obligations to provide a safe work environment for employees and visitors to Government House; and

ɶ continued to use data derived from IT systems to inform program-planning considerations, budget decisions, workloads and staffing.

The ongoing development, implementation and review of management practices will ensure the Office is well placed to operate in the current business environment and meet the expectations of the Governor and contemporary Queensland society.

Each year the Governor takes pride in hosting investiture ceremonies at Government House in Brisbane and in the north of the State to confer awards and honours and to recognise, celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of Queensland citizens who have made a difference to their communities.


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A FAREWELL AUDIENCE WITH THE QUEEN

In recognition of the forthcoming end of her term, Her Excellency travelled to the United Kingdom and France in April 2014 to undertake a farewell audience with her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and to strengthen Queensland’s relationship with France and the United Kingdom.

The Governor met with the Queen at Windsor Castle, where Her Majesty takes up official residence for a month over Easter, and received a private tour of the Royal Archives and Royal Library housed within the Castle. Since 1914, Windsor Castle has housed a collection of documents relating to the history of the Royal family, including diaries, personal correspondence, and speeches dating back to the 13th century.

During the visit program, the Governor also traced the history of her predecessor and Queensland’s first Governor, Sir George Ferguson Bowen, and visited his final resting place at Kensal Green Cemetery.

As Chairman of the Queensland Rhodes Selection Committee, the Governor was pleased to meet with four outstanding Queensland scholars and Rhodes recipients at Rhodes House in Oxford to receive a briefing about the progress of their studies.

The Governor, as the representative of Queensland’s Head of State, also participated in a busy program of high-level meetings and receptions to strengthen Queensland’s relationships in the region. The program included meetings with key representative of UK and French companies doing business in Queensland; UNESCO, with a specific focus on the Asia Pacific Screen Awards hosted each year in Brisbane; the Commonwealth Games Federation; the Commonwealth Secretariat; Britain-Australia Society; the Cook Society; the Royal Overseas League; and a selection of key art galleries, as well as a seminar with leading Australian businesswomen in the UK.

The Governor and Mr McCosker were accompanied by the Deputy Official Secretary, Office of the Governor at a total cost of $56,733.

Four outstanding Queensland Rhodes Scholars briefed the Governor, Chairman of the Queensland Rhodes Selection Committee, on the progress of their studies at Oxford University. (L to R: James Tilbury, Robert Mullins, Her Excellency, Amanda Rojek, Lauren Dancer, and Mary Eaton, Registrar Rhodes House.)


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The Office of the Governor has finalised another successful year with a positive operating result of $47,000 and a solid cash position of $638,000.

Total services revenue for 2013-14 was $5,795,000, all of which was provided through Queensland Government appropriation.

Actual gross operating costs for the Office increased slightly by 3.5 per cent compared with the previous year. Salaries and employee related expenses represented the largest expenditure item at $4,245,000.

EXPENDITURE 2013-14The operating expenses for 2013-14 are outlined in the graph below:

Financial Overview

Employee expenses (74%)

Supplies and services (24%)

Depreciation and amortisation (2%)

Other expenses (<1%)

The Office of the Governor’s net asset position as at 30 June 2014 was $2,338,000 (up from $2,201,000 in 2012-13).

The Queensland Audit Office undertook an independent audit of the Office of the Governor’s financial report for 2013-14. The audit report states that the Office of the Governor has complied with the prescribed requirements in respect of the establishment and keeping of accounts in all material respects and the financial report has been drawn up to present a true and fair view in accordance with the prescribed accounting standards of the transactions of the Office for the year 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014 and of the financial position as at the end of that year.

CONSULTANCIESThe Office engaged consultants during the reporting period at a total cost of $26,250.

PUBLIC LIABILITYThe Office of the Governor maintains liability insurance cover (property and general liability) against insurable risks with the Queensland Government Insurance Fund (QGIF). The current policy cover provided by QGIF, which has few exclusions and no upper limit on claims, covers the Office of the Governor for any legal liability which may ensue as a result of activities conducted by the Office.

WASTE MANAGEMENTThe Office of the Governor’s Waste Management Policy is contained in the Code of Conduct.

2013-14 STATEMENT OF ASSURANCEAs required by the Financial Accountability Act 2009, the Chief Financial Officer provided a statement to the accountable officer, the Official Secretary, assuring him of the efficiency, effectiveness and economy of the Office’s financial operations and governance. This statement indicated no deficiencies or breakdowns in internal controls which would impact adversely on the financial statements or governance for the year.


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Office of the GovernorFINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the financial year ended 30 June 2014

Statement of Financial Position

23

Statement of Comprehensive Income

22

Statement of Changes in Equity

24

Statement of Cash Flows

25

Notes To and Forming Part of the Financial Statements

26

Management Certificate

44

Independent Auditor’s Report

45

GENERAL INFORMATIONThese financial statements cover the Office of the Governor. The Office of the Governor is a department under the Financial Accountability Act 2009.

The head office and principal place of business of business is:

168 Fernberg Road PADDINGTON QLD 4064

A description of the nature of its operations and principal activities is included in the notes to the financial statements.

For information in relation to the Office of the Governor’s financial statements please contact:

Air Commodore Mark Gower OAM Official Secretary Office of the Governor, Queensland GPO Box 434 Brisbane Qld 4001

Telephone: (07) 3858 5700 Facsimile: (07) 3858 5701 Email: [email protected]

Amounts shown in these financial statements may not add to the correct sub-total or totals due to rounding.

Table of Contents

[21]ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014 Financial Statements

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR, QUEENSLAND [22]

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNORStatement of Comprehensive IncomeFor the year ended 30 June 2014


OFFICE OF THE GOVERNORStatement of Financial PositionAs at 30 June 2014


OFFICE OF THE GOVERNORStatement of Changes in EquityFor the year ended 30 June 2014


OFFICE OF THE GOVERNORStatement of Cash FlowsFor the year ended 30 June 2014


OFFICE OF THE GOVERNORNotes to and forming part of the Financial Statements 2013-14

arisensignificantly

of




OFFICE OF THE GOVERNORManagement Certificate


OFFICE OF THE GOVERNORIndependent Auditor’s Report

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