Updated guide to help public sector identify and tackle fraud

Read our Fraud Risk Assessment Good Practice Guide [PDF, 1 MB]

The guide lays out practical steps for planning and conducting fraud risk assessments, a critical component of any fraud prevention programme. Fraud often goes unreported and unaddressed, so the guide encourages organisations to prioritise understanding their unique vulnerabilities.

SFO Deputy Chief Executive of Strategy and Prevention Dan Eaton highlighted the importance of understanding and managing fraud risk, “Fraud diverts funds from essential services, undermines the integrity of publicly funded programmes, and can fuel criminal activity. Addressing fraud exposure and taking proactive steps toward prevention safeguards both public funds and public trust.”

“This updated guide underscores our commitment to supporting public sector agencies in understanding and addressing fraud risk. By following these good practices, organisations can significantly reduce the likelihood of fraud and strengthen trust in public services.”

This comprehensive guide is intended for those responsible for fraud risk management, including risk owners, business unit managers, assurance leads, and finance teams.

We’ve also published two new case studies about cases prosecuted by the SFO to help you better understand, identify, and prevent the impact of fraud. These are useful resources that can help when carrying out a fraud risk assessment.

• Fraud involving gambling licences and grants [PDF, 408 KB]
• Financial fraud to cover up theft of $225,000 [PDF, 433 KB]

The SFO Counter Fraud Centre remains committed to working closely with public sector organisations to strengthen their ability to prevent fraud and corruption.

If you’re in the public sector and would like to know how we can help build your organisation’s counter fraud culture, please get in touch here counterfraud@sfo.govt.nz.