enhanced-commonwealth-performance-framework-discussion-paper

The integrated resource management cycle has five stages.
Stage 1: Planning
The cycle begins when an entity identifies a need and/or direction of government (strategic
direction) that requires action. The entity will identify and agree on the priorities of the
strategic direction, develop a hierarchy of objectives, strategies and activities, and thereby
identify the specific goals of the entity. The entity will then choose between various strategies to
achieve the objectives, incorporating lessons learned from previous experiences with the cycle
and adapting as necessary.
Stage 2: Resource allocation
The second stage occurs when an entity identifies and allocates resources (time, capital, human
resources, etc.) to its goals (as identified in stage 1). The entity will allocate specific resources to
programmes and activities, and define the results to be achieved by each (through the
development of targets, deliverables and milestones, etc.). This stage requires the entity to
consider resource constraints and to prioritise activities based on merit, need, cost and worth.
Stage 3: Implementation and monitoring
The third stage occurs when an entity moves to implement its plans (as detailed in stages 1
and 2) and establishes mechanisms for monitoring the achievement of results. The entity will
consider and utilise various implementation strategies and delivery methods that are
appropriate to meet its specific goals. On an ongoing basis, an entity will also ensure that there
are strategies in place to monitor progress towards its goals, including performance and
financial monitoring strategies.
Stage 4: Evaluation and audit
In the fourth stage, an entity will establish and maintain systematic and comprehensive
approaches to both internal (assurance and assessment) and external (audit) evaluation
activities. These activities ensure the entity’s ability to demonstrate progress on and
achievement of goals by evaluating the outcome, responsiveness, efficiency and effectiveness of
its plans. These activities generate information needed by managers to guide the entity’s
performance and progress towards goals, and can then be used to inform future planning,
resource allocation and implementation decisions.
Stage 5: Reporting
In the last stage, an entity will take information (made available to it through the ongoing
operations monitoring, evaluation and audit arrangements) and make it accessible internally
and externally through appropriate reporting channels (annual reports, audit reports,
management reports, etc.). Within an entity, this stage makes useful, clear, comprehensive,
relevant and accurate information available to decision-makers, enabling well-informed and
timely decision-making in relation to planning, budgeting and forecasting. Externally, reporting
keeps parliament and the government informed and assists in the scrutiny of public
administration and expenditure, resulting in the adjustment and refinement of government
policy directions.
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