Assignment Task
PURPOSE
· What are you hoping this briefing will achieve? What outcome are you looking for? e.g. to provide information, to seek approval, to implement a change
SUMMARY OF ISSUES
· This is where you make your main points/argument – save context/background for the next section.
· This section should be a logical progression of ideas.
· Use plain English and follow the referencing conventions of this assessment Flinders University.
· Use full sentences in dot points. Points should be clear and concise.
· Content in this section should be in addition to, and not reiterate the information provided under Purpose above.
· Any Issues/risks must be identified in order or priority (i.e. political/sensitive/critical issues). Do the issues impact on any other agency? Financial implications?
· Are there any identified/significant risks or issues or potential solutions for the Minister to note?
· Provide a summary of each of the relevant issues the Minister may wish to consider in responding to the recommendations.
BACKGROUND
· Outline any background that is directly relevant to the recommendations or purpose of the brief. This background information should focus on providing details which are critical to allowing the Minister to be fully informed.
· Background material should not duplicate Summary of Issues, but provide background context only.
· Additional or relevant, but indirect background information, should be provided in attachment form.
ATTACHMENT(S)
· List relevant attachments that you will add to the end of the briefing. Stat why they are relevant. e.g. reference list, other document, letter response for the Minister to sign
ADVICE FROM OTHERS
· List of names, position and organisations for the people you have hypothetically consulted
· These are likely people you have referenced in the Summary of Issues and Background sections (e.g. Industry Experts/Leaders, Academics, NGOs, other Gov Departments)
FUNDING COMMENT
· Estimate the total costs or saving of your initiative.
· If there are no funding implications, then put N/A.
· Describe how you arrived at the figure (i.e. resources required) and sources of funding (existing budget or additional funding)
RECOMMENDATION(S)
· What you would like the Minister to do with this information
· Links directly to the purpose of the briefing
· Must be a logical action from the information you have provided
· Examples: The Minister…
o approves the proposed project
o approves the proposed expenditure…
o approves the proposed revisions to the social policy…
o makes the attached statement to the media in support of…
o signs the attached letter to support…
