The purpose of an audit of financial statements is to enhance the degree of confidence of
intended users in the financial statements. This is achieved through the expression of an
opinion by the auditor as to whether the financial statements are prepared, in all material
respects, in accordance with an applicable financial reporting framework, or – in the case of
financial statements prepared in accordance with a fair presentation financial reporting
framework – whether the financial statements are presented fairly, in all material respects, or
give a true and fair view, in accordance with that framework. Laws or regulations binding
public-sector audit organisations may prescribe other wordings for this opinion. An audit
conducted in accordance with standards based on the INTOSAI Fundamental Principles of
Financial Auditing and relevant ethical requirements will enable the auditor to express such an
opinion.