This audit assessed the effectiveness of the governance arrangements for the implementation of the 2020 National Agreement on Closing the Gap (the National Agreement) in New South Wales (NSW). The stated objective of the National Agreement is to overcome entrenched inequality faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The implementation of the National Agreement in NSW is led by the Premier’s Department and the NSW Coalition of Aboriginal Peaks (NSW CAPO). 

The audit considered the design, implementation and conduct of the governance arrangements in place for the National Agreement in NSW. This includes the structures, processes and relationships that are used to guide decision-making and provide oversight and accountability.

Findings

• The governance arrangements are not operating effectively.
• The governance structure does not provide clear accountability for the delivery of National Agreement initiatives or drive the behaviours needed to achieve its stated outcomes.
• The Premier’s Department and NSW CAPO agreed to work together to implement the National Agreement, but they
  have not formed a genuine partnership.

Recommendations

1. Increase the accountability of NSW Government agencies for implementing the Priority Reforms of the National Agreement.
2. Ensure the Premier’s Department and NSW CAPO are working in genuine partnership.
3. Improve the planning and oversight of the implementation of the National Agreement in NSW.
4. Improve the transparency of NSW CAPO’s work conducted under the National Agreement.