Chapter 06 · Governance & regulationGovernance, Ethics & Risk
Three lines model
Definition
The three lines model is a governance model describing roles for management, risk and compliance functions, and internal audit in managing risk.
References
This reference provides supporting context for how “Three lines model” is defined and used.
Overview
What it means in practice
Three lines model should be read as a governance, ethics and risk term. Its meaning depends on the role, authority, control, legal context and decision being assessed.
In practice, users should state the boundary, actor, evidence and decision context. That keeps three lines model specific enough for review without turning it into a generic assurance claim.
Why it matters
Three lines model matters because governance language determines who is accountable, what is controlled and how risks are escalated. Clear definitions reduce the chance that responsibility is implied but not operational.
Common misconception
A common error is to treat Three lines model as proof that governance is effective. The stronger approach is to state the owner, mandate, control, evidence and limits of authority.
Review questions
Who is responsible, and who is affected? What evidence supports the term? What limitation, authority or remedy would change how a reader interprets it?
How it is used
In professional practice, “Three lines model” helps policymakers, regulators, legal teams, boards and organisations describe or assess a governance model describing roles for management, risk and compliance functions, and internal audit in managing risk. It is commonly encountered in legislation, policies, governance systems, contracts, oversight and compliance decisions.
A credible application identifies the applicable jurisdiction, legal or policy text, effective date, scope and responsible actor.