Transforming Policy into Legislation

Overview

This one-day course is specifically aimed at officers involved in reforming legislation. The translation of policy into legislation is highly process-driven and requires attention to specified milestones and timeframes. This is usually carried out by an 'Instructing Officer'. This course provides information relating to legislative and parliamentary processes, the role of the Instructing Officer, the importance of proper and timely consultation, and Cabinet and Parliamentary documentation. It also provides signposts to more detailed technical information that the Instructing Officers can access when needed.

Course Content

This course provides an overview of the process of transforming policy into legislation, and of the responsibilities of Instructing Officers in achieving that aim. It also covers the involvement of central government agencies and of the Cabinet and Parliamentary documentation needed. It addresses the skills associated with the completion of the documents, and provides additional sources of information and key resources to assist in the process and to further develop the expert knowledge of the participants.

Course Outcomes

By the end of this course attendees should be able to:

• appreciate how legislation fits within the role of government
• understand how legislation is created
• understand the role of the Instructing Officer
• understand the importance of consultation
• demonstrate skills in drafting relevant documentation

Benefits to your organisation

• preparation of high quality legislation that achieves the necessary outcomes
• improved reputation of the organisation in terms of managing a complex process
• potential for excellence in political, economic and social outcomes due to the use of appropriate consultation and advisory processes

Benefits to you

• confidence and competence in carrying out a complex role
• manage risks effectively in terms of policy and legislation
• ability to thoroughly brief senior management