The Government is committed to optimising the use of its assets to ensure cost effective and efficient services. Government-owned training/conference facilities are amongst a number of assets that are provided to facilitate the various activities of agencies in NSW. It is imperative that these like other government assets are fully utilised.

I am writing to reiterate that preference must be given to the use of government-owned training/conference facilities in the first instance, where it is economical and feasible to do so. Where established these facilities may cater for activities similar but not limited to workshops, conferences, meetings, and forums relating to community or in house activities that may or may not require overnight accommodation.

Chief Executives or their delegates should satisfy themselves that all attempts are made to explore suitable government-owned accommodation in regard to any proposed activity, and that facilities are appropriate for the learning needs of staff. The use of non-government facilities should only be considered where the above mentioned criteria cannot be met.

Chief Executives or their delegates should ask staff members to make a file note to explain the reasons behind the decision when state-government owned facilities are not used. Chief Executives or their delegates should ensure that when a recommendation is made to use a non-government owned facility, the reasons for that decision are included in the approval process.

Premier's Department has compiled a schedule of government-owned training/conference facilities. The schedule can be found on the Premier's Department website at www.dpc.nsw.gov.au under Training & Resources, then Training Facilities.

In making a decision about appropriate venues, delegates are reminded that they also need to take into account the work location of potential participants and any guest speakers. This aspect is particularly relevant to activities being conducted or potential participants travelling from rural or regional NSW.

C. Gellatly
Director-General