BFA612 Management Decision Making and Strategy Group Assignment Task 1, S2 2025

BFA612 Assessment task 1 

Type of assignment- Group assignment 

Task length- please see below for task lengths related to parts 1, 2, and 3. Weightage- 30% 

Objectives of the Assignment: 

The objective of this assignment is to help develop the practical, soft, and ethical skills essential for management accountants. These skills are critical not only for securing employment but also for ensuring sustained success in both business and community settings. Background Tasmania is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, including the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, which covers almost 20% of the state. However, tourism, especially nature tourism, is closely linked to biodiversity and the attractions created by a rich and varied environment. 

It can also cause loss of biodiversity when land and resources are strained by excessive use, and when impacts on vegetation, wildlife, mountain, marine and coastal environments, and water resources exceed the carrying capacity. This loss of biodiversity means a loss of tourism potential. Therefore, sustainable tourism practices are becoming increasingly crucial to ensure the preservation of this precious environment. 

It is important to understand what sustainable tourism is and how it can be achieved while balancing industry growth and conservation efforts. Sustainable tourism is a concept that seeks to minimize the impact of tourism on the environment. 

It involves responsible travel behaviour that conserves natural resources, respects local cultures, and supports local economies. In Tasmania, sustainable tourism is particularly important due to the fragility of its environment and unique flora and fauna. The scenario presented in this task mirrors real-life business decision-making processes and centres around the United Nations Development Sustainability Goal 15, which focuses on protecting, restoring, and promoting the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. The case study underscores the pivotal role that Higher Education institutions play in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This case aims to empower students to drive positive change and contribute to a better future for society and the planet. Additionally, this assessment aligns with other SDGs beyond Goal 15, such as SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It emphasizes the importance of economic and ethical decision-making to balance between human needs and nature's needs to achieve sustainability. Ethical decisions, prioritizing inclusivity, social well-being, and ecological sustainability can foster stronger community cohesion, protect the environment, reduce disparities, and improve the quality of life for all. However, merely adhering to economic requirements without considering ethical dimensions may not always lead to ethical outcomes. Economic actions driven by self-interest can perpetuate social and ecological injustices, reinforce inequalities, and exclude marginalized groups from opportunities. Therefore, finding a balance between self-interest and public interest is crucial for ensuring sustainable and equitable solutions that genuinely benefit society and the environment and contribute to broader goals, such as achieving the SDGs.

Assessment Task 1: Group Assignment 

What is required of you: 

The task requires you to use appropriate and correct computational analysis using Excel to reflect your expertise in the use of Excel in the evaluation of the situation and conducting calculations to support your findings. Findings and associated recommendations are required to be presented in the form of a professional report advising companies and managers about how your recommendations can assist companies in better planning and creating a sustainable society and planet.

PART 1_ Group_Written report of approximately 1,500 (+/-10%), accompanied by an Excel worksheet; 
PART 2_ Group_Discussion of ethical and legal decision-making, and their long-term implications (1,000+/-10% words); 
Part 3_ Individual_reflection on your teamwork experience. 

Case Study: balance human and natural needs Tasmania boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes globally, with the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area encompassing nearly 20% of the state's territory. Mary, a devoted advocate for environmental conservation residing in Tasmania, has made a bold decision to repurpose her farm into a tourist resort. Nestled in a remote locale near the West Coast, Mary's farm enjoys a stunning setting overlooking the water and is adjacent to natural bushland teeming with wildlife and biodiversity.

Accessible only via a lengthy gravel driveway, the farm lacks any paved roads. With an expansive land area of 10 hectares at her disposal, Mary has chosen to invest in 10 luxurious tents complete with shared bathroom facilities and a generously sized communal kitchen. These tents promise guests a distinctive and immersive experience amidst nature's splendour, allowing them to reconnect with the environment while indulging in modern comforts. Converting a farm into a tourist resort is no small endeavour and entails various costs contingent upon factors such as tent size and construction materials. Mary has diligently consulted with professionals to assess the financial implications of her project. Based on her consultations, here is a comprehensive breakdown of the estimated costs Mary might expect to incur: Tent Procurement:The cost of purchasing luxury tents, including consideration for their size, quality, and features, typically ranges from $1,500-$3,000 per tent. 

Infrastructure Development:

Expenses related to setting up necessary infrastructure such as building bathrooms, installing plumbing and electrical systems, constructing the communal kitchen, and other facilities required for guest accommodation.

The cost of these can vary significantly, based on the specific requirements of the project, but typically range from $20,000 to $50,000. Site Preparation:Costs associated with preparing the site for the installation of tents and infrastructure, including clearing land, levelling terrain, and ensuring proper drainage around 25,000- $30,000. 

Permitting and Regulatory Compliance: Fees for obtaining permits and licenses required for converting the farm into a tourist resort, as well as any expenses associated with meeting building codes and safety regulations. She may need to obtain permits from local authorities, which can cost at least $1,000.