Author: Government recordkeeping
Our recent Records Management Network (RMN) meeting brought together speakers from across government and the public sector to explore the role of recordkeeping in supporting integrity, governance, compliance and organisational improvement.
With more than 160 attendees online, the session opened with a welcome from Michelle Rennie, our new Executive Director, Information Governance and Keeper of Public Records, followed by a PROV update from Rebecca Parker, Assistant Director, Government Services.
Recordkeeping and Integrity
Victorian Public Sector Commissioner Brigid Monagle highlighted the critical role recordkeeping plays in supporting public sector integrity, transparency and accountability. Drawing on recent case studies and guidance, Brigid discussed how evolving technologies, flexible work practices and increasing time pressures can impact recordkeeping practices.
A key message was that strong recordkeeping cultures are built through clear expectations, practical training and leadership support. When recordkeeping is valued by senior leaders, it is more likely to be embedded across the organisation, leading to better governance outcomes and wider adoption of integrity.
Managing Disposal Processes
Paula Trcek from South East Water shared insights into managing approval processes for time-expired records across both digital and physical environments.
Paula outlined a structured disposal approach supported by technology, including EDRMS, CRM systems and Power BI reporting. She also discussed common challenges, such as aligning disposal criteria with both organisational and PROV requirements and overcoming the reluctance many business areas have when approving disposal activities.
Making Compliance Engaging
David Robinson from the City of Greater Geelong explored how job crafting and storytelling can help build records compliance.
Using examples from local government, David demonstrated how creativity, personal interests and storytelling can make records management concepts more relatable and memorable. His presentation was a reminder that engagement is often strongest when people can connect with the purpose behind the work - and that there should be room for fun along the way.
Recordkeeping Assessment Tool
Rachel Newnham from PROV gave an overview of the Recordkeeping Assessment Tool (RKAT), a free self-assessment tool that helps organisations measure recordkeeping maturity against PROV Standards.
RKAT supports organisations to identify strengths, target improvement opportunities, and track progress over time. The tool provides a practical way to move beyond compliance and support continuous improvement initiatives.
Final Thoughts
Across all presentations, a common theme emerged:
Effective recordkeeping is about more than compliance. It supports integrity, accountability, informed decision-making and organisational success.
For those who could not join or wish to revisit the discussions, a recording of the session is now available on the RMN recaps page. We also welcome your feedback and encourage anyone interested in presenting at future RMN events to reach out to Marianne O'Hara.
Thank you to all our presenters for sharing their knowledge and experiences, and to everyone who joined us for another engaging RMN.
Material in the Public Record Office Victoria archival collection contains words and descriptions that reflect attitudes and government policies at different times which may be insensitive and upsetting
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples should be aware the collection and website may contain images, voices and names of deceased persons.
PROV provides advice to researchers wishing to access, publish or re-use records about Aboriginal Peoples