Policy Manual Introduction
The Policy Manual is provided to support the management of the Service in ensuring commitments are met in a consistent manner when dealing with issues and members of the public. Policies are obligatory on the organisation.
Policies are framed by Government or the Service in response to recognised needs as they arise. In many cases, the object will be to achieve a logical and consistent line of action in response to a recurring problem or management situation.
Service policies are a response to a situation that can change with time and priorities. If policies become, or are seen to be inappropriate, they will be revised or deleted. The Service will review this policy manual on a regular basis to ensure that it reflects the needs of the organisation.
All policies are to be approved by the Service Board on recommendation by the Management Committee.
The Service in carrying out its responsibilities is guided by legislation and other government policy. These include the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, Public Sector Employment and Management Act and the Financial Management Act. Other matters are covered by Operational Guidelines, Standard Operating Procedures. Brief summaries of these documents are outlined below.
Policies
A policy is a written statement of intent or plan of action to be adopted by the Parks and Wildlife Service. The policy may include specifying the particular circumstances or situation in which the action will apply. The following guidelines should be followed in the development of policy:- Be clear, concise and self explanatory;
- One or two pages is an ideal length. Numbering of paragraphs and the use of elaborate headings and sub-headings is not required; and
- Policies dealing with complex issues may require a preamble which summarises the need for the policy and the basis upon which it has been formulated. If particular technical terms are to be used, these may need to be defined.
