Strengthening governance through forensic review
KordaMentha supported a government-led system review by uncovering financial irregularities, assessing internal controls, and recommending robust conflict-of-interest measures to improve transparency and accountability.
A government agency engaged KordaMentha to conduct a forensic review of its financial systems following concerns about irregularities and potential misconduct.
The engagement focused on identifying weaknesses in internal controls, evaluating service provider arrangements, and preparing expert evidence where fraud or mismanagement was detected.
The review revealed gaps in conflict-of-interest management and asset use protocols, prompting a series of targeted recommendations to improve governance and ensure value for money.
How we helped
KordaMentha provided forensic accounting and investigative support to assess the integrity of financial systems and service provider arrangements. Our team examined transaction records, reviewed lease and subcontracting disclosures, and evaluated the effectiveness of existing controls. Where misconduct was identified, we prepared expert evidence to support further action.
We recommended a suite of governance improvements, including mandatory annual conflict declarations, timely disclosures, and centralised conflict management. These measures were designed to enhance transparency, reduce risk, and strengthen accountability across the organisation.
- Conducted forensic analysis of financial records
- Assessed internal control frameworks and asset use
- Identified gaps in conflict-of-interest protocols
- Prepared expert evidence for misconduct cases
- Recommended annual declarations and pre-approvals
- Proposed centralised conflict management and reporting
- Enhanced transparency in leases and subcontracting
Outcomes acheived
- Improved conflict-of-interest controls: Mandatory declarations and pre-approvals now required for asset use and service arrangements.
- Centralised conflict management: A single mechanism introduced to manage and monitor disclosures across departments.
- Increased transparency in procurement: Lease and subcontracting arrangements now subject to clearer reporting standards.
- Strengthened internal controls: Control gaps identified and addressed to reduce risk of financial misconduct.
- Expert evidence prepared: Findings supported further investigation and potential legal proceedings.
- Value-for-money assurance: Governance improvements aligned with public accountability and service efficiency.
