As much as they want to

Across the ditch, Radio New Zealand reports the Auditor General has asked Uni Auckland questions about its purchasing a house for VC Dawn Freshwater (ex UWA) to rent.

So, could state audit office’s here go beyond examining universities financial statements and inquire into specific activities?

CMM asked the NSW Audit Office, which replied, “the Auditor-General may at any time make a report to parliament on any matter that arises from or relates to the exercise of the audit or other functions of the Auditor-General and that in the opinion of the Auditor-General should be brought to the attention of Parliament.”

The NSW Office was certainly warning universities they were exposed to a decline in international student numbers years ahead of the pandemic. And it appears it could look at other issues – if it chose too.