ASIC on the future of auditing

ASIC on the future of auditing

Author: CPA Australia February 24, 2026 Duration: 19:35

In 2026, auditors are working in an environment defined by AI technologies, heightened scrutiny, regulatory oversight and ethics demands. 

Which is why it's vital that professionals in audit understand this evolving landscape. Additionally, how the regulator ASIC views key issues and what it is focusing on in 2026. 

ASIC commissioner Kate O'Rourke is this episode's special guest and she discusses the evolution of audit and financial oversight at a pivotal time. 

This episode explores: 

  • The biggest forces currently reshaping the audit and assurance landscape in Australia 

  • The key areas where ASIC expect firms to lift their performance 

  • The role of digital tools, automation and AI in enhancing audit quality, risk detection, and regulatory oversight 

  • The safeguards, ethical standards, and governance structure ASIC expects firms to put in place when integrating advanced analytics or AI into audit processes 

  • Emerging major international trends 

  • How stronger global alignment could shape the future of Australia's audit framework 

  • Capabilities that the next generation of auditors need 

  • How regulators, firms, and professional bodies like CPA Australia can work together to build that future-ready workforce pipeline. 

Listen now for expert-led insights from ASIC. 

Host: Tiffany Tan, audit and assurance lead, CPA Australia. 

Guest: Kate O'Rourke, ASIC commissioner. She previously held senior leadership roles at Treasury and has held executive roles at ASIC overseeing corporate transactions and governance. Kate O'Rourke began her five-year term as an ASIC commissioner in September 2023. 

ASIC is Australia's integrated corporate, markets, financial services, and consumer credit regulator. It is an independent Australian government body. 

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CPA Australia publishes four podcasts, providing commentary and thought leadership across business, finance and accounting: 

Search for them in your podcast platform. Email the podcast team at podcasts@cpaaustralia.com.au


Tune in to With Interest for a clear-eyed look at the forces shaping the world of business and finance. Presented by CPA Australia, this weekly discussion moves beyond the headlines to explore the practical implications of change for accounting professionals, business leaders, and anyone with a stake in the economic landscape. You’ll hear from practitioners and experts who break down complex topics in auditing, taxation, and corporate strategy into actionable insights. The conversations in this podcast are grounded in real-world application, whether the subject is a shift in regulatory frameworks, emerging leadership challenges, or broader economic trends. It’s a resource designed to inform your decisions and deepen your understanding of the professional landscape. For those looking to stay current and think critically about their work, With Interest provides a reliable and engaging audio companion. Each episode serves as a timely update and a catalyst for deeper professional reflection, all delivered with the authority and depth you would expect from CPA Australia.
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