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    A critical analysis of the independence of the interal audit function: evidence from Australia

    Access Status
    Fulltext not available
    Authors
    Christopher, Joseph
    Sarens, G.
    Leung, P.
    Date
    2009
    Type
    Journal Article
    
    Metadata
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    Citation
    Christopher, Joe and Sarens, Gerrit and Leung, Philomena. 2009. A critical analysis of the independence of the interal audit function: evidence from Australia. Accounting Auditing and Accountability Journal. 22 (2): pp. 200-220.
    Source Title
    Accounting Auditing and Accountability Journal
    DOI
    10.1108/09513570910933942
    ISSN
    09513574
    School
    School of Accounting
    URI
    http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/45593
    Collection
    • Curtin Research Publications
    Abstract

    Purpose – This study aims to critically analyse the independence of the internal audit function through its relationship with management and the audit committee. Design/methodology/approach – Results are based on a critical comparison of responses from questionnaires sent out to Australian chief audit executives (CAEs) versus existing literature and best practice guidelines. Findings – With respect to the internal audit function's relationship with management, threats identified include: using the internal audit function as a stepping stone to other positions; having the chief executive officer (CEO) or chief finance officer (CFO) approve the internal audit function's budget and provide input for the internal audit plan; and considering the internal auditor to be a “partner”, especially when combined with other indirect threats. With respect to the relationship with the audit committee, significant threats identified include CAEs not reporting functionally to the audit committee; the audit committee not having sole responsibility for appointing, dismissing and evaluating the CAE; and not having all audit committee members or at least one member qualified in accounting. Originality/value – This study introduces independence threat scores, thereby generating analysis of the internal audit function's independence taking into account a combination of threats.

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