Government owns 92% of the state’s land mass and holds over 140,000 land titles. Not surprisingly, the Government’s need for its property is not static. Priorities change for a range of reasons so making the best use of government property assets, but also with a view to future requirements, is essential. In late 2014, the Government introduced a new program for identifying and managing the sale of surplus property – the Land Asset Sales Program.

Traditionally, we assess government programs after they have been in progress for some time. But sometimes it makes sense to audit a program at or close to its outset so as to identify issues before they become problematic. That is what we have done with the Land Asset Sales Program.

Our overall view is that the program has made a good start. Importantly, sound processes and governance arrangements are in place, which, if followed, should produce a good outcome for the taxpayer. With the additional public reporting I have recommended, Parliament and the public should be able to monitor the program’s implementation and results. I will likewise monitor progress and hope that the good start leads to successful implementation.