Audit guide sets context for inquiry

This article was current at the time of publication.

CPA Australia has published the revised “A guide to understanding audit and assurance: Australian listed companies.” This plain English guide helps to set the scene for the Parliamentary Joint Committee Inquiry into the Regulation of Auditing in Australia (PJC Inquiry).

As a quick reference tool, it can help stakeholders frame their views and assess recommendations which have been made or will emerge as the inquiry progresses. Armed with an understanding of the status quo, along with any upcoming changes already in train (such as international standard-setting projects on non-assurance services and audit fees) they can better assess which measures represent a real change and may better appreciate the likely impact of any proposed changes.

Step-by-step process guide

The guide steps through the audit process and each section of the auditor’s report to help stakeholders understand how much they can rely on the audit. It reflects the current audit requirements, but it does not mean to say that change is not warranted.

Indeed, the PJC Inquiry is an opportunity to explore how stakeholder needs may be better addressed and whether there are legislative or regulatory measures which can improve audit outcomes. The most significant changes cannot be readily made by the auditors themselves as they do not set the scope of the statutory audit nor the standards for auditing or ethics.

Sound understanding sorely needed

Changes to the audit framework to improve confidence in audit and better address stakeholder needs would be welcome, but public commentators and agitators for change need to base calls for reform on a sound understanding of the existing requirements for audit and auditors, so that the actual impact can be understood. Only then will any reforms create the change needed to address the PJC’s concerns, which can be implemented in a manner which is appropriate, consistent and proportionate without imposing an unnecessary burden.

CPA Australia’s submission to the PJC Inquiry highlights that there are a number of key areas where reforms would be beneficial, based on analysing the root causes of the identified problems. Solutions will need to encompass auditors and the broader reporting eco-system to be effective.