In the late 1800s, Prince Edward Island’s Provincial Auditor position was established. While the title sounds similar, this position was less like the Auditor General and functioned more like today’s Comptroller. At that time, the Provincial Auditor, appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council, was responsible for checking and examining public accounts, preparing public accounts, and reporting accounts, claims, and demands against government.
Within a few decades, talk of the Provincial Auditor having an independent oversight role began. Some believed the Provincial Auditor should report directly to the legislature instead of the provincial government. These early discussions were foundational to the independence that characterizes the modern Office.
A major turning point came in the 1960s when amendments to the Audit Act changed the Provincial Auditor’s duties significantly. Instead of preparing the public accounts, the Provincial Auditor was now responsible solely for auditing them. This change prompted the creation of the current Comptroller position, and the adoption of the title “Auditor General" in place of “Provincial Auditor," aligning Prince Edward Island with other provinces and federal government.
Throughout the 1970s, evolution of work continued. During this time, the Auditor General suggested that the Office should meet directly with representatives from the legislature to discuss audit results. This led to the development of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, one of the most important components of government accountability. At the same time, discussion around audit work that focused on economy, efficiency, and effectiveness began due to increased government spending. This approach was formalized in the late 70s and shaped the performance auditing work done by the Office today.
In 2002, an amendment removed the Office of the Auditor General from the executive branch of government, making the Auditor General an officer of the Legislative Assembly. This separation reinforced the Office’s independence as a source of information and accountability for Islanders.