Conclusion

DTF implemented effective internal controls to support the preparation of a complete and accurate AFR.

VicTrack has made significant progress in improving its internal control framework that relates to asset accounting.

The internal control frameworks of the other material entities were adequate to support preparation of complete and accurate financial reports. However, some entities need to strengthen some internal controls to ensure their financial reports remain reliable.

Conclusion

The operating cash result turned around this year, with a surplus of $4.3 billion ($8.9 billion deficit in 2021–22). However, this includes the $7.9 billion proceeds from the VicRoads modernisation joint-venture arrangement. The GGS would have reported an operating cash deficit of $3.6 billion without this inflow. It also loses some of the future cash inflows from the registration and licensing activities that it controlled before the joint-venture arrangement.

Conclusion

Our clear opinion provides reasonable assurance that the financial performance and position of the State of Victoria, and within that the general government sector, as reported in the 2022–23 Annual Financial Report of the State of Victoria (AFR), is reliable.

We consulted with the audited agencies and considered their views when reaching our conclusions. The agencies’ full responses are in Appendix A.

Download a PDF copy of Appendix C: Audit scope and method.

Download a PDF copy of Appendix B: Abbreviations, acronyms and glossary.

Download a PDF copy of Appendix A: Submissions and comments.

Agencies can observe, inspect and investigate people and businesses involved with asbestos disposal to make sure they are complying with the law. They can also fine, warn, and take other actions against anyone who dumps asbestos.

But agencies do not coordinate their approach to monitoring and enforcement. The type and severity of compliance actions they take depends on where the asbestos was dumped, and which agency cleaned it up.

While information about how to safely remove and dispose of asbestos is widely available, it is not always complete.

This can make it difficult for people to know where to take asbestos. Different landfills and other collection points also have different costs and conditions for accepting asbestos. The lack of clarity can be confusing and could deter people from disposing of asbestos correctly.