Developed by:
David Holmes, Manager, Residential Services, La Trobe University

Description:
A budget should be like a good set of clothes, perfectly tailored for the occasion. It should look smart (well balanced), be flexible to allow any changes in shape, and come with matching accessories (a few bells & whistles) ... ready to impress scrutiny.

This course will be practical and down to earth. It will be aimed at those who have no or little (maybe intermediate) experiences with budgets. The course will provide information on the myths of budgeting, budget theory, budgetary practicalities, and activity based costing and business plans. The course will conclude with an actual case study where participants will have an opportunity to apply what they have learned.

Course Outline:
Segment 1: Introduction to Budget Management

Segment 2: Budget Building

Segment 3: Costing and Budget Basic's

Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• recognize how your part of the budget and controlling costs affects your entity's financial performance
• prepare a budget that is consistent with your entity's strategic plan
• use the appropriate techniques to anticipate costs and revenues
• understand the concept of activity-based costing
• identify and analyze variances
• enjoy, with confidence, undertaking any budget challenge

Participant Expectations:
Participants will be provided with 6 weeks to complete this course, and should plan to complete one segment every 2 weeks to complete the course on time.

Bios:
David Holmes is the Manager of Residential Services at La Trobe University Bendigo. He has extensive experience in budgeting and budget management on his campus, and in the role of Treasurer of ACUHO-I.