New Zealand tops again in 102 country survey of budget transparency, Australia yet to get a look in
Dark Green excellent, Green substantial, Red and Yellow not flash or worse, Grey 'not on our radar' New Zealand again is ranked first in the International Budget Partnership 2015 Open Budget Survey of budget transparency, public participation, and the performance of oversight agencies, the widely accepted authoritative international voice on such things. Congratulations to all five rated in the top category-NZ,Sweden South Africa, Norway and the US. However budget transparency is rated Limited, Minimal, Scant or None in most countries surveyed particularly in our region. This fifth survey covers 102 countries but continues to not include two G20 members Australia and Japan ( Oops , add Canada as well). When I raised questions about this two years ago I said Australia likely would rate reasonably well if we were assessed, although some Budget Portfolio Statements challenge this reader at least. Elena Mondo Supervisor, Open Budget Initiative replied to my em...