On 1 February 2020, the Australian Government established the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) by merging the former Department of Agriculture with the environment functions of the former Department of the Environment and Energy.

Culture is essential to an organisation’s sustained performance and in bringing about transformational change. Cultural change requires clear and persuasive communication about the change and behaviours required, supported by a clear purpose and vision of the future.

Past external reviews and ANAO performance audits of the department have found weaknesses in the department’s governance and culture, including demonstrating value for money in the department’s procurement activities.

The objective of this audit is to assess the effectiveness of the design and implementation of DAWE’s cultural reform program prior to the July 2022 Machinery of Government changes.

Key findings:

• The design and implementation of DAWE’s cultural reform program was partly effective. DAWE planned and commenced implementation of a four-year reform program. DAFF has not yet made decisions relating to the ongoing direction of its reform program.
• The planning undertaken for the development of DAWE’s reform program was largely appropriate. The reform program was informed by an evidence base, including consultation with internal and external stakeholders.
• Arrangements to support the implementation of the reform program were partially effective. While governance arrangements were established, not all risk assessment activities were completed, and some identified risks were not actively managed.