Vaughan Williams One Nation Mallee
Comprehensive Audit and Transparency Framework for Indigenous Affairs Expenditure
One_Nation_Victoria_logo

Federal Policy Proposal: Comprehensive Audit and Transparency Framework for Indigenous Affairs Expenditure

Policy Title:

"Transparency and Accountability in Indigenous Affairs Funding Act (2025)"

1. Purpose

To establish a comprehensive framework ensuring transparency, accountability, and effective utilisation of public funds allocated for Indigenous affairs, including Aboriginal Land Councils, Indigenous corporations, and related programs.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all federal, state, and territory agencies, organisations, and entities receiving government funding for Indigenous affairs.

3. Objectives

  1. Accountability: Ensure all funds are spent effectively, ethically, and aligned with the intended objectives.
  2. Transparency: Provide taxpayers with clear and accessible information on how funds are allocated and used.
  3. Impact Evaluation: Assess the effectiveness of funded programs and initiatives in achieving desired outcomes for Indigenous communities.

4. Key Components

4.1. Comprehensive Audit Requirement

  • Annual Audits: All organisations receiving government funding for Indigenous affairs must undergo an independent annual financial and operational audit.
  • Audit Scope: Include administrative costs, program delivery, and measurable outcomes.
  • Auditing Body: Establish a specialised Indigenous Affairs Audit Unit (IAAU) within the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO).

4.2. Public Reporting

  • Annual Reports: Publish annual audit findings on a centralised "Indigenous Affairs Transparency Portal" managed by the Department of Finance.
  • Performance Metrics: Reports must include financial statements, program outcomes, and cost-effectiveness analyses.
  • Accessibility: Ensure reports are publicly accessible, written in plain language, and available in multiple languages, including Indigenous languages.

4.3. Fraud and Mismanagement Controls

  • Implement strict financial controls and anti-corruption measures, including whistleblower protections.
  • Require immediate suspension of funding and investigation for entities found mismanaging funds.

4.4. Stakeholder Engagement

  • Include Indigenous leaders and community representatives in audit design and evaluation to ensure culturally appropriate processes.
  • Establish a "Community Feedback Mechanism" to incorporate insights from Indigenous communities directly impacted by the funding.

4.5. Legislative Amendments

  • Amend existing legislation, such as the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976, to mandate compliance with this policy.

5. Implementation

5.1. Timeline

  • Phase 1 (Year 1): Establish the IAAU, develop audit guidelines, and launch the Transparency Portal.
  • Phase 2 (Year 2): Begin audits of high-expenditure organisations and programs.
  • Phase 3 (Year 3): Expand to all entities receiving Indigenous affairs funding.

5.2. Funding

Allocate $50 million over three years to establish and operate the IAAU, develop reporting systems, and provide training for auditors.

6. Enforcement

  • Non-Compliance Penalties: Entities failing to comply with audit requirements may face funding suspension, financial penalties, or deregistration.
  • Legal Oversight: Enable federal courts to address serious breaches.

7. Review and Evaluation

  • Conduct a comprehensive review of the policy’s effectiveness after five years.
  • Adjust guidelines and enforcement mechanisms based on findings.

8. Expected Outcomes

  1. Greater public confidence in Indigenous affairs expenditure.
  2. Improved program effectiveness and community outcomes.
  3. Enhanced collaboration and trust between Indigenous communities and government.

9. Policy Ownership

Department of Finance in partnership with the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).