Swimming against the tide? Regulating the public sector audit space in Samoa

Fatu, Siaoauli and Seve, Folototo and Rika, Nacanieli J. (2023) Swimming against the tide? Regulating the public sector audit space in Samoa. Journal of Pacific Studies, 43 (1). pp. 25-47. ISSN 1011-3029

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Abstract

In this study, we examine whether establishing national public sector auditing standards as opposed to following international standards may improve perceived audit independence and audit quality. We also explore the improvements and challenges that are perceived to arise if public sector auditing standards are legally binding. This study is motivated by Samoa’s (particularly the Controller and Auditor General) plan to establish national public sector auditing standards which is contrary to the current world trend of following international standards. We employ a survey instrument to collect data from a sample of accountants and auditors working at various organisations and at different levels in both the public and private sectors. We find that an overwhelming number of participants support the establishment of national public sector auditing standards as well as the intention to make them legally binding. We also find that participants perceive that national standards will result in consistency of application and improve transparency of public sector audits, consequently leading to improved audit independence and audit quality. However, we also find that such benefits may be short-lived when perceived challenges are considered, particularly if the standards are legally binding.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Additional Information:	This version is accepted with minor revisions.
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Accountability, Audit Independence, Audit Quality, Audit Reform, Auditing Standards, Compliance, Governance, Legally Binding, Transparency
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HF Commerce > HF5601 Accounting
Divisions:	School of Accounting, Finance and Economics (SAFE)
Depositing User:	Nacanieli Rika
Date Deposited:	23 Jul 2025 23:03
Last Modified:	23 Jul 2025 23:03
URI:	https://repository.usp.ac.fj/id/eprint/14129

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