New development: Whither the strategic direction of public audit in an era of the ‘new normal’?

Abstract

IMPACT Given ongoing questions about the role and performance of auditing, the challenges faced by public sector auditors are how to not only maintain the confidence of governments/parliaments and the general public but also to show the usefulness and relevance of audit processes, findings and recommendations in an environment that is significantly adjusting and evolving to a ‘new normal’. This article is a timely examination of public audit strategies from national audit offices, assessing whether they are likely to deliver the objectives of the new normal, for example with the increased focus on digital transformation, work methods, communication and collaboration. It also contributes to the now long-standing practice of shared learning by public audit offices around the world. The article includes national audit offices’ reactions to the changes needed post Covid-19.