History of the Audit Office
David Green and John Singleton are collaborating on a history of this major function of government which is scheduled for publication in 2009. In three sections, it will chronicle the rise of government auditing in the 19th century, its consolidation through much of the 20th century, and the recent shift in focus from accounting for past performance to accountability for achieving outcomes. The auditing of local government and of Pacific territories will be examined in addition to work with central government. There will be an emphasis on the contribution of significant individuals, and on the culture of the workplace – sometimes embattled, sometimes romantic. Sport, scandals and stoushes with politicians are all part of this story, which will be enlivened by oral history and generously illustrated.
James Edward FitzGerald, a long-serving early Controller and Auditor-General (and philosopher), ponders another report.
Image information:
Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand
Ref: 1/1-001316.
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of New Zealand, Te Puna Matauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before
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