Local government 2023 Compliance Audit Return

Online portal access

Please refer to the following steps to start the CAR:

1. Create account: to create an account select 'Sign in' at the top right corner of your screen, select the 'Register tab' and complete the registration form.
2. Confirm the registration details: once you have registered, a confirmation email will be sent to you, directing you to the CAR portal where you can begin completing the CAR.
3. Complete the CAR: once you have completed the CAR, a copy of the completed CAR will be emailed to the registered email address.
4. Submit the CAR once adopted by council: once council have adopted the CAR, please submit the certified copy and council's resolution adopting the CAR to DLGSC. This will ensure compliance with the requirements of regulation 15 of the Local Government (Audit) Regulations 1996. 

Please note the CAR is only able to be completed by one person. We recommend collating all your answers and documents required internally before beginning the process.

Queries relating to the 2023 Compliance Audit Return can be directed to DLGSC by emailing lghotline@dlgsc.wa.gov.au

Smarthub update and submission of documents

The Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries is currently transitioning to a new Smarthub program. The CAR Portal is a temporary portal until the new program is implemented.

While Smarthub is unavailable, to not impact on the method of submission of local government financial documents and statutory requests, please use the below emails to lodge your documents with the department. 

Lodge documents with the department using the following email addresses:

• Annual Budget: annual.budget@dlgsc.wa.gov.au
• Budget Review: budget.review@dlgsc.wa.gov.au
• Annual Financial Statements: annual.report@dlgsc.wa.gov.au
• Financial Extension: legislation@dlgsc.wa.gov.au (submit before 30 September)
• Budget Extension: legislation@dlgsc.wa.gov.au (submit before 31 August)
• Grants Commission Information Return: grants.commission@dlgsc.wa.gov.au (submit before 31 January 2023)

Local governments will be advised of any changes to this process in due course.