What did not go well in 2022/23

We did not complete all audits on time

The ongoing effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, catching up on previously deferred work, and global auditor shortages meant that it was not possible to complete all public sector audits within their statutory deadlines. Some public organisations also experienced challenges in having adequate information ready to be audited. Certain sectors have been particularly impacted, especially schools, where audits remain affected by these ongoing pressures.

Some of our performance audits took longer than planned

The effects of the Covid-19 pandemic meant that some performance audits took longer than planned. Our performance audits examine complex issues, often including multiple agencies, and involve managing many dependencies that can affect timeliness.

Public organisations’ satisfaction with audit services fell

In 2022/23, public organisations' satisfaction with their audit fell to 69%, down from 71% the year before. One important reason for the fall in satisfaction was the delay in completing audits.