Corporate Governance

The role, functions and operation of the Commission are governed by the Essential Services Commission Act 2002 (and certain other Acts relevant to the public sector in South Australia).

The Commission has a Corporate Governance framework and supporting policies ensures the Commission complies with its legislative responsibilities and manages the allocation of responsibilities between itself and staff of the Commission.

The Commission’s overall objective is to ensure that it complies with all of the legislation which governs its operations, and that it operates ethically, efficiently and effectively.

This Corporate Governance Framework is the means by which this overall objective can be achieved. It describes clearly to Commissioners, staff and stakeholders what should be expected in terms of processes, accountability, values and behaviours.

Eight key policies, covering areas such as culture and regulatory approach, strategy and planning, Commission decisions and determinations, delegation of authority, budget and financial reporting, risk management, involvement of Commissioners and human resource management, form the basis of the governance documents.

Further supporting documentation exists which together create a comprehensive governance framework. This includes a Charter of Consultation and Regulatory Practice which can be found on the Consultation page.

• The Commission is considered an agency under section 9 of the Freedom of Information Act 1991 and must publish an up to date information statement every 12 months.

The Commission last reviewed its Freedom of Information Statement  in July 2012.