The Auditor-General has released his report on the Observations from our central government work in 2023/24.
The report describes the results of an audit of the Government’s financial statements and the results of the Auditor-General’s monitoring of public spending, based on the Office’s Controller work.
“The Government’s financial statements are crucial to maintaining the integrity of our public finance system. It is therefore important that they comply with accounting standards and are prepared and published shortly after year end,” said Auditor-General, John Ryan.
“I am satisfied that they present fairly the Government’s financial performance and position, and that they comply with generally accepted accounting practice.
“The Controller function is an important part of my role as Auditor-General. It supports the fundamental principle of parliamentary control over government spending.”
The audit found that in 2023/24, $1.17 billion (0.62% of the Government’s budget) was spent without Parliament’s authority. Although the proportion compared to the Government’s budget is low, in many cases it was preventable, the Auditor-General said.
“We encourage central government to ensure ongoing focus on this important area of accountability,” he said.
The full report is available on the Office of the Auditor-General’s website.
