The Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit has tabled the independent post-election review of the Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO).
Commissioned by the Committee following the 2025 federal election and conducted by Dr Martin Parkinson AC PSM, the Review examined the effectiveness and efficiency of the PBO, the appropriateness of its mandate, its resourcing and service demand levels, stakeholder feedback, and the impact of its work on public debates.
Committee Chair, Mr Josh Burns MP, said that 'The Review makes it clear that 13 years after it was established, the PBO continues to be a highly regarded institution in the public policy landscape, and its work is considered to be insightful and highly credible.'
The Review found that the PBO's mandate continues to be appropriate and should remain unchanged, and that altering it could jeopardise the PBO's established credibility and strong working relationships. It also identified opportunities to further strengthen engagement with parliamentarians, parliamentary parties, and the broader public.
A total of 23 recommendations were made across themes including enhancing credibility, improving transparency, strengthening the PBO's service offering, and maximising its long‑term impact. Together, the recommendations are intended to facilitate more efficient support to parliamentarians and to strengthen the PBO's ability to continue delivering high quality, credible support on all dimensions of its mandate going forward.
The Committee will further consider the findings and recommendations as part of its ongoing oversight of the PBO. The Committee also extends its appreciation to Dr Parkinson and the PBO Review secretariat for their work.
The Review is available on the Committee's website.
