Redland City Council’s Audit and Risk Management Committee (ARMC) has given the organisation a largely clean bill of health for 2024–25, while quietly flagging several areas that will require closer scrutiny in the year ahead — particularly asset management, cyber security and the pressures created by a tight labour market.
The committee’s detailed annual report confirms there were no major governance failures, no significant financial reporting deficiencies and no adverse audit opinions during the year at Redland City Council.
Independent chair Mitchell Petrie concluded the committee had “satisfactorily undertaken” all responsibilities under its charter, providing assurance across financial reporting, risk management, internal audit, fraud and corruption controls, and legislative compliance.
However, the report also highlights several underlying issues that remain unresolved or require ongoing attention.
One of the clearest areas of concern is asset management.
While acknowledging improvements in asset data and processes, the committee states that progress “requires some attention” and confirms it will continue to closely monitor the function in 2025–26.
Asset management is a known pressure point for councils across Queensland, with long-term infrastructure maintenance and renewal increasingly difficult to fund.
Cyber security risks also feature prominently.
The committee received regular updates on attempted frauds — particularly cyber-related scams — and the controls in place to mitigate them.
While no major breaches were reported, the ongoing nature of these threats was noted, with management actions monitored to reduce exposure.
The report reveals the scale of audit activity inside council during the year.
Internal Audit issued 10 reports containing 88 recommendations, while also tracking 18 recommendations from the Queensland Audit Office.
Although more recommendations were closed than opened during the year, 69 recommendations remained outstanding at 30 June 2025, indicating a substantial ongoing workload for management.
The external audit outcome was positive, with the Queensland Audit Office issuing an unmodified (unqualified) audit opinion on both council’s financial statements and those of its controlled entity, Redland Investment Corporation.
External auditors described council’s internal control environment as “effective”, although some deficiencies were identified and are being monitored.
The committee also pointed to broader structural risks facing council, including the current macro-economic environment, workforce shortages and the challenge of attracting and retaining skilled staff.
It warned these pressures can place strain on internal controls if not carefully managed.
Governance oversight of the Digital Transformation Program was another key focus.
While the committee said it was impressed with progress and management of the program, it confirmed digital transformation — including risk, governance and benefits realisation — will remain a priority area in the coming year.
Councillors are being asked simply to “note” the report, though they retain the option to request further information if concerns are raised during debate.
