Professional Standards

Professional Standards in Internal Audit

The IIA provides an internationally recognised framework for internal auditing.

The International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) comprises:

• mandatory guidance which is required and essential for the professional practice of internal auditing, and
• strongly recommended guidance which describes practices for effective implementation. These standards apply globally with over 170,000 internal auditors working within the framework.

Code of Ethics

 The Code of Ethics is a statement of principles and expectations governing behaviour of individuals and organisations in the conduct of internal auditing. It provides a description of minimum requirements for conduct and describes behavioural expectations rather than specific activities.

 The Code of Ethics is the authoritative guidance for the internal audit profession from the Global Institute of Internal Auditors. It is part of the International Professional Practices Framework.

Integrity

The integrity of internal auditors establishes trust and thus provides the basis for reliance on their judgement.

Objectivity

Internal auditors exhibit the highest level of professional objectivity in gathering, evaluating, and communicating information about the activity or process being examined. Internal auditors make a balanced assessment of all the relevant circumstances and are not unduly influenced by their own interests or by others in forming judgements.

Confidentiality

Internal auditors respect the value and ownership of information they receive and do not disclose information without appropriate authority unless there is a legal or professional obligation to do so.

Competency

Internal auditors apply the knowledge, skills and experience needed in the performance of internal auditing services.

The full Code of Ethics is attached (pdf)