Emerald Studies in Public Service Accounting and Accountability – serie

Public spending accounts for a significant share of national GDP and is perceived as a critically important way for overcoming periods of economic and social crisis, but is often criticised as inefficient and ineffective, giving raise to calls for new processes of reform. Because most public resources are raised through taxation from citizens and businesses, accountability and assurance are key in the democratic process, and auditing attempts to fulfil this public interest role. This in turn leaves public sector auditing under increasing public scrutiny and political pressure.Through a comparative analysis of the development of auditing practices in governments across the globe, Auditing Practices in Local Governments: An International Comparison provides a contemporary overview of public sector auditing practices at both local and state level. By focusing on countries which have experienced differing implementation processes, and which are characterised by different administrative and political cultures, the authors provide a comparative analysis of countries across the globe, including major European states, China, Australia, and New Zealand.Written by scholars and practitioners in the fields of public sector auditing, this first volume of Emerald Studies in Public Service Accounting and Accountability provides readers both researchers and practitioners with a thorough overview of international public sector auditing practice.

Financial measurement can be difficult, especially in the public sector where accurate and reliable reporting is imperative for public trust, legality, accountability, and long-term sustainability of activities. Measurement in Public Sector Financial Reporting brings together theoretical arguments and empirical evidence to fuel the debate on measurement approaches in public sector financial reporting.Understanding that various dimensions of value need to be explored in order to reveal methods for providing a more comprehensive public sector view, Measurement in Public Sector Financial Reporting presents a constructive and thoughtful analysis of possible valuation methodologies for the public sector context and related peculiarities and critical issues. The chapters consider both theory and practice, providing a holistic showcase for both practitioner and academic viewpoints. The authors develop discussions and consolidate knowledge, providing a substantial contribution to an international debate.This second volume of Emerald Studies in Public Service Accounting and Accountability recognises the unique characteristics of public sector assets, liabilities, and the other elements of financial statements. The views presented in the chapters make the contents useful for those who are involved, interested in, or responsible for the preparation of public sector financial reporting and related standards.