On 2 July, our Secretary Series featured Dr Caralee McLiesh PSM, Auditor-General for Australia, in a compelling session that explored the state of integrity and performance in the public sector and the strategic direction of the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO).

Dr McLiesh reflected on the historic role of the Auditor-General, an office established by the fourth act of Parliament and serving Australia for over 124 years. She emphasised its enduring mission – to uphold transparency, integrity, capability, and performance in government administration. 

Drawing from recent audits and sector engagement, Dr McLiesh noted a strong culture of integrity within the Australian Public Service – but also recurring issues. These include failures to follow basic procedures, such as revoking IT access when staff leave, and senior officials operating outside established policies. 

She stressed that most breaches aren’t deliberate – they stem from unclear expectations or weak systems. But the long-term cost of compromised integrity is high, and the ANAO is focused on helping agencies get the fundamentals right. 

Transparency was a central theme. She argued that transparency enables informed public debate and builds trust, but it must be balanced with privacy, security, and commercial considerations. 

The ANAO plays a key role in promoting transparency, always weighing the public interest when considering the release of sensitive information. 

Dr McLiesh outlined the ANAO’s three strategic priorities: 

• Impact: Delivering audits that matter, focusing on high-risk areas and producing reports that are practical, balanced, and objective
• Innovation: Embracing emerging technologies, including AI, to improve audit methods and adapt to a rapidly changing environment
• People: Investing in technical, leadership, and relationship skills to attract and grow talent in a competitive market.

She emphasised the importance of flexible work environments and creating opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds.

The ANAO is evolving its approach to include rapid reviews and short-form audits, providing quicker feedback and more agile insights. Publications like Audit Insights help share lessons learned and support continuous improvement across the sector.

Dr McLiesh also highlighted the challenge of measuring non-financial performance and the need for better frameworks. She noted that ANOA audits have led to real change – shaping legislation, improving policy, and strengthening agency practices.

Perhaps the most memorable message: the ANAO is your “critical friend.” It’s not just about oversight, it’s about partnership, insight, and helping the public sector improve. Through early engagement, practical recommendations, and a commitment to excellence, the ANAO continues to support a more transparent, accountable, and high-performing government.

Photos – a selection of photos are available below (Photo credit: Mode Imagery)