2005 Administrative Review of the Operations of Block Grant Authorities Report

The 2005 Administrative Review of the Operations of Block Grant Authorities (BGAs) examined current BGA practices in the administration of the Government’s Capital Grants Programme and the Investing in Our Schools Programme for schools.  The review ‘s particular focus was on strengthening BGA accountability, transparency and effective practice and ensuring parents have appropriate input into capital grants project selection processes.

Abstract

The review was announced in November 2004 by the former Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Dr Brendan Nelson MP.  Consultants Erebus International assisted the Department in the conduct of the review, including through extensive consultation.

The Review report was completed in December 2005 and is attached.

Overall, the Review found that BGAs are administering the Capital Grants and Investing in Our Schools Programmes in an efficient and effective manner.  They provide a significant advisory service to schools and their collective experience is a key national resource as a knowledge base on good school building and development practices.

While there is considerable parental involvement in local decision making processes, there is scope for increased parental involvement at the BGA Board and committee level, particularly to enhance transparency, credibility and perceived objectivity. 

A number of strategies for enhancing and spreading best practice by BGAs were recommended. 

Author(s)

Erebus International

Publication Details

Type: Reviews and evaluations
Published: 12/2005

Topics Covered

Sectors: School education
Detailed: 
Education policy
Non-government schools
Parents and community
Resourcing of education

Availability

Download  (PDF 413KB)