Media statement
Following today’s article in the Sydney Morning Herald titled 'Auditors raise probity queries at broadband overseer' citing documents obtained under Freedom of Information, the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy states:
As in all government agencies, regular internal audits are designed to test and improve compliance with internal policies and procedures.
None of these audits have revealed any instances of fraud, graft or corruption as implied by the article. The findings primarily relate to instances where officers did not fully document procedures.
Measures to improve compliance with documentary requirements have been implemented as recommended by the internal auditors. The internal auditors have subsequently confirmed that their recommendations for improvements have been implemented.
The incident concerning procurement approaches involved renewal of an existing software licence where the method of procurement was not fully documented. The department continues to undertake regular reviews of its internal process, including through internal audits, as the basis for continuous improvement in guidance and training of staff.
In addition, external auditors – the Australian National Audit Office – also undertake annual reviews of our financial controls, which have not identified any systemic control issues in the department.
Contact: media@dbcde.gov.au
02 6271 1777
