Elements and Performance Criteria

The Range of Variables defines the different contexts, work environments and parameters governing the performance of this competency standard. The variables chosen in training and assessment will need to reflect local industry and regional contexts.

Which relevant legislation may be included?
State Noxious Weeds Acts, Clean Water Acts, and Local Authority regulations.

What pests are relevant to this competency standard?
Weeds and vertebrate pests.

What pest management advice may be relevant to this standard?
Providing an interpretation of legislative requirements or reference to appropriate sources of advice where required.

What can other means include?
Observation or reports from a secondary source.

What may agency policies specify?
Accurate record keeping, observation procedures, inspection procedures, procedures or protocols for entry onto private property, storage protocols, protocols for preparation and serving of notices.

What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole?
Competence in assisting in the implementation of legislation requires evidence that non-compliance against legislation is identified and investigated and that appropriate action is carried out to resolve the situation. The skills and knowledge required to assist in the implementation of legislation must be transferable to a range of work environments and contexts. For example, this could include different types of pests, properties, legislation and investigative techniques.
What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria?

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace, to transfer the skills to other contexts and to deal with unplanned events. The knowledge requirements for this unit are listed below:

Relevant legislation and regulations.
Pests occurring in the locality and appropriate control options.
Communication techniques.
Conflict avoidance and resolution.
Individual and property rights.
Negotiation techniques.

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria?

To achieve the performance criteria, some complementary skills are required. These skills include the ability to:

Identify non-compliance with legislation.
Investigate non-compliance.
Act on non-compliance issues.
Communicate effectively with landowners and field staff.
Provide considered advice in a manner that minimises conflict and maximises compliance.
Accurately observe and report.
Accurately document activities.

Are there other competency standards that could be assessed with this one?
This competency standard could be assessed on its own or in combination with other competencies relevant to the job function.

Essential Assessment Information
For information about

What processes should be applied to this competency standard?
There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life, which are required in all jobs. They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions. Some of these are covered by the key competencies, although others may be added. The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this competency standard. Following each question a number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency needs to be demonstrated where 0 = not required, 1 = perform the process, 2 = perform and administer the process and 3 = perform, administer and design the process.
Communicating ideas and information
Verbal and written communications with landholders, and supervisors and authorities. (2)

Collecting analysing and organising information
Written, photographic, and reference to public documents. (2)

Planning and organising activities
According to enterprise and legislative procedures and protocols. (1)

Working with others and in teams
Through communication and sharing of information, and field support. (1)

Using mathematical ideas and techniques
Determining size and scope of pest infestations and required work to comply with legislation. (1)

Solving problems
Through exploration of a range of options to resolve non-compliance issues. (2)

Using technology
Recording, transmittal and storage of information. (1)