Ethical challenges are not always obvious.
They can emerge through longstanding client relationships, pressure to accept management’s position, requests to share confidential information or hesitation to challenge a colleague’s judgement or behaviour.
The challenge for auditors is not simply understanding APES 110 — it is knowing how to apply the Code when circumstances are difficult, the answer is not clear and professional pressures are present.
Recent events show what can go wrong.
Drawing on recent case studies and practical scenarios, this session will explore how auditors can apply APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including Independence Standards) to difficult situations in practice.
We will explore:
- Applying the fundamental principles and conceptual framework in APES 110 to everyday audit decisions
- Confidentiality and the appropriate handling of sensitive information
- Identifying and addressing threats to independence and objectivity
- Managing conflicts of interest and professional pressures
- NOCLAR and reporting obligations
- Documenting ethical judgements, actions and conclusions appropriately
