Advanced Skills Intensive - Investigations, Enforcement and Compliance in a Challenging World

Attention authorised officers, team leaders and managers of regulatory/environmental and development compliance teams!

In our post-COVID world, the role of authorised officers in investigating and responding to complaints and breaches of the various regulatory legislation administered by councils has become increasingly complex and demanding.

High property values, increased work-from-home arrangements, mental health issues, homelessness and cost of living stress has contributed to a trend towards increased contraventions of legislative obligations, as well as increased complaints concerning nuisances, defective and/or unlawful development, animal management and public health matters.

The ubiquitous use of social media and AI software means that complainants as well as those who have breached legislative obligations have sophisticated knowledge of their rights and the evidentiary rules applicable to actions taken. We have observed more willingness to challenge compliance action by a council through  Court and Tribunals expecting ‘more’ from councils.  Further, increasingly difficult behaviours combined with significant budgetary pressures has meant that the manner in which councils are dealing with difficult compliance matters is constantly needing to evolve to remain effective and achievable.

In this advanced skills intensive, we will provide attendees with the detailed and up-to-date skills and expertise required to be effective in their roles in today’s challenging legal environment.

Presented by Victoria Shute and Cimon Burke as well as other members of our exceptional team in our usual engaging and interactive style, the day will address (including through specialised workshops):

• advanced investigation skills and the ‘tricks of the trade’  (including the use of apps and electronic devices, statement preparation and conducting interviews)
• evidentiary rules and their practical application in complex compliance scenarios (including cautions, lawful access, use of body cameras, dealing with hearsay evidence and reluctant witnesses)
• setting expectations & effectively managing difficult complainants, witnesses and offenders
• record keeping and the overarching public officer considerations
• key considerations applied by Courts and Tribunals to enforcement action undertaken by councils (including consideration of evidence, strategy and remedies sought)
• enforcement strategy – what is the best approach?

Investment:     $695 + GST per person

Time:                     Friday 20 June 2025 9.30am to 4.30pm

Venue:                  In person at Unley Oval Community Hub or online via live and interactive web link (morning and afternoon tea provided for in-person attendees)

Please email info@kelledyjones.com.au  to register.  If you are interested in having us deliver a tailored session to your council or region, please contact Victoria Shute on 8113 7104 to discuss options and pricing.