ESPERANCE Shire Council CEO, Mal Osborne, said a recent financial management review conducted by independent auditors UHY Haines Norton has been beneficial to the Shire.

Mr Osborne said the review went into great detail regarding financial management at the shire – examining the appropriateness and effectiveness of the financial management systems and procedures of the Shire.

In their report, UHY Haines Norton noted a number of areas which required attention, however the report also said these were relatively minor when the scale of the Shire was taken into account.

The report also said auditors considered the overall effectiveness of the financial management system and procedures of the Shire Council were appropriate for the Shire’s current level of operations.

Mr Osborne said most of the issues raised were either rectified while the review was taking place, or immediately after.

Other issues were earmarked to be followed up when they next take place, such as annual returns and financial reports.

Mr Osborne said most of the issues raised were quite small, and said the report was very thorough.

“The report highlighted what areas we are doing well in, and what areas need to be focused on.

“We certainly welcomed having the review conducted, and it was beneficial to have an auditor look at ways to review procedures.”

Mr Osborne went on to say he felt comfortable the Shire has addressed the issues raised in the report, and said a lot of work was being undertaken by the Shire to better its financial management strategies – including taking part in workshops organised by Western Australian Asset Management Improvement next week.

In regards to the Shires current financial situation, Mr Osborne said the Shire was doing well, and said he looked forward to seeing UHY Haines Norton again when they conducted the annual audit later this year.