Course Information

Generally accepted government auditing standards (GAGAS) provide a framework for conducting high-quality audits with competence, integrity, objectivity, and independence. GAGAS contains standards for audits and requirements and guidance dealing with ethics, independence, auditors’ professional judgment and competence, quality management, performance of the audit, and reporting.

The Governmental Auditing series of courses are separated into three categories:

• Course One Fundamental Principles for Government Auditing
• Course Two Performance Audits
• Course Three Financial Audits and Attestation Engagements

Performance auditing promotes the delivery principle “value for money – public services should be provided economically and efficiently”. It is objective and systematic, applying structured and professionally adopted methodologies. It seeks to provide new knowledge, analysis or insights and, where appropriate, recommendations for improvement by examining the economy, the efficiency and the effectiveness of government programs.

This course (Course Two) covers the core disciplines of performance audits. It describes the features and requirements to provide a basis for good performance audit practices, along with examples to illustrate the application. For instance, it incorporates a flowchart for internal control considerations to assist in applying the requirements. It also includes samples of audit reports issued under GAGAS.

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to enhance the capability and skill level to carry out performance audits, and prepare a report that improves the programs and activities of the audited entity by providing relevant recommendations.

• Recognize the values of government audits
• Recognize auditors’ responsibilities related to GAGAS requirements
• Identify concepts, principles, and components of performance audits
• Recognize fieldwork requirements for performance audits
• Recognize reporting requirements for performance audits