MBIE strengthens oversight of technology investments

The reviews found MBIE has the frameworks, governance structures, controls and processes expected of a large public sector organisation managing major technology investments, while identifying areas to strengthen.

Following the independent review of the Biometric Capability Update (BCU) project released in June, MBIE assessed whether similar issues existed elsewhere in the organisation.

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MBIE Deputy Secretary Corporate and Digital Shared Services Paul Stocks says the findings provide assurance that MBIE's broader technology portfolio is operating as intended.

"I am reassured by the fact that there were no surprises in these findings, but there are some things we can do better," Mr Stocks says.

"Over the next year, we will strengthen central oversight, improve technology investment capability and reporting, and clarify accountability across our technology portfolio.

"This builds on work already underway to strengthen project discipline and record-keeping and improve the quality and consistency of financial information.

"Together, these changes will help ensure our teams have the support and capability to plan, deliver and monitor technology initiatives responsibly from start to finish."

The stocktake was conducted by MBIE’s internal assurance function and independently reviewed by Maven Consulting, specialists in governance, investment, programme delivery and assurance.

It examined 70 active technology initiatives across MBIE as at 21 July 2026, ranging from routine laptop replacements to major transformation programmes such as upgrades to immigration systems.

Of these, 31 met MBIE's threshold for formal governance due to anticipated capital expenditure and/or expected operating costs of more than $250,000.

The assessment found action plans were in place for initiatives rated amber or red. An amber rating indicates an initiative requires additional attention, while red signals the need for governance intervention.

All initiatives were operating within the relevant Cabinet, Treasury and Ministerial approval and delegation limits.

“We will report publicly at least quarterly, with more detail on technology investments costing over $5 million across their lifetime. This will show how our largest technology investments are progressing and how public money is being managed,” Mr Stocks says.

The 2 reviews, their terms of reference, independent assurance material and further information about MBIE’s technology initiatives are available below.

Stocktake of technology projects(external link)