This is the report of the proceedings of the Access 2004 Conference held in Cape Town from 29 November to 2 December 2004.  > 

Good accounting is a prerequisite for providing credible information, performing the management function and accountability.The Western Cape Provincial Government' s Fiscal Policy 2003 - 2006, Chapter 4,began to address accounting issues.The Accounting Review 2003 is a new initiative, building on previous work done. It is aneffort to begin to develop interpretative accounting skills and offers a reflection on thebroad strategic shifts and the consequential challenges facing the provincial governmentin the accounting environment. Examples of these challenges are the implementation ofGenerally Recognised Accounting Practice(GRAP), new Standard Chart of Accounts and the new Basic Accounting System - thelatter two, both with effect from 1 April 2004.  > 

The Accounting Review 2005 working paper for municipalities is based on the 2004/05 AFS which is a new initiative undertaken by Accounting Services within the Financial Governance component of Provincial Treasury.  > 

The accounting environment within the local government sphere is undergoing various reforms, bringing with it many challenges for municipalities, the biggest being the capacity to implement. While municipalities remain steadfast in meeting these challenges, their hard work is bearing fruits in the form of improved financial reporting.  > 

This important report is the result of the summit held in Cape Town, 23-24 June 2005, which focussed on the problem of rape. Presentations were made by the National Prosecuting Authority, National Prosecuting Authority Western Cape, SAPS Western Cape, Department of Correctional Services, Department of Community Safety, Multi Agency Delivery Action Mechanism, Department of Social Services and Poverty Alleviation, Department of Health: Thuthuzela Care Centre, Western Cape Education Department, Joint Forum on Policing (NGOs), and the Medical Research Council.In-depth panel discussions also took place and the points raised are noted in this document.A Provincial Forum to deal with Rape and Violence against Women & Children was a positive outcome of the summit. An initial meeting of this group will be held on in July 2005 to plan a way forward.  > 

The Department of Social Services and Poverty Alleviation (DSS & PA) undertook an audit of home and community based care (HCBC) in the Western Cape between October 2002 and February 2003. The audit formed part of an audit of home and community based care undertaken by the national Departments of Health and Social Development in all provinces. The audit is a repeat of a similar survey undertaken in 2000-2001.  > 

This study identifies which national departments have programmes and policies relating to children aged 0 - 9 years, and who is responsible for the implementation of these policies and programmes.  >