How Do we know if it is Working?

Abstract

This article introduces the first of the three cross-cutting themes used to assess Australian integrity systems: evaluation of their consequences. It argues that an evidence-based approach to assessing the overall impact of integrity and corruption prevention measures is possible, based on experience in Australia, drawing on measures including the evolving State of the Service surveys of the Australian Public Service Commission. However, different types of measurement serve different institutional purposes, with little current integration and no overall agreed framework for how they might be combined to help judge performance. The article identifies key issues that need to be addressed in developing such a framework.