Andrew Robb (Goldstein, Liberal Party, Chairman of the Coalition Policy Development Committee) Share this | Hansard source

I would like to very much associate myself with the remarks of the Special Minister of State. The office of the Auditor-General plays a critical role in any well-functioning democracy. The ANAO's audit reports are compulsory reading for all of us. Quite rightly, they do give governments some discomfort and anxious moments, but that is what they are there for. They identify the problems and areas that need to be improved. It is important that governments learn from their findings and it is important that oppositions make sure that the government is aware of what the ANAO is finding about the conduct of the Public Service and the many programs that are implemented. When the government drops the ball and becomes lax in relation to guidelines, it is the taxpayers who are the poorer. Today the ANAO is very ably led by Mr Ian McPhee, who is supported by a professional, dedicated and responsive team. On behalf of the opposition I too congratulate the ANAO on the 110th anniversary since the role of the Auditor-General was established.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my condolences over the sad passing of John Taylor, who served as the Commonwealth Auditor-General from 1988 to 1995. I had the great privilege of having contact with John Taylor over various matters before his retirement. Indeed, he was a fine public servant and a good man. Mr Taylor was a public servant in the finest tradition. As the Canberra Times reported:

He was a good choice for the taxpayer because he had no time at all for people he felt were cheating, rorting the system, or not pulling their weight.

That is a bit salient for the moment. John stayed true to that disposition to the great benefit of the Australian community.

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