Overview
International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB) is an independent international standard-setting body established in 1986, originally as the Public Sector Committee of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). It develops accounting and sustainability reporting standards for governments and public sector entities worldwide.
Its purpose is to improve transparency, accountability and decision-making through consistent, high-quality public sector financial and sustainability reporting.
Mission and focus areas
IPSASB focuses on strengthening public financial management and sustainable development through the adoption and implementation of accrual-based International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) and public sector sustainability reporting standards.
Its activities address financial reporting, public sector assets and liabilities, fiscal sustainability, climate-related disclosures and natural resources. These standards support the assessment of public finances, sustainability risks and government accountability, providing information relevant to public sector financing and sustainable investment decisions.
Structure and governance
IPSASB operates as an independent standard-setting board, with administrative and operational support from IFAC. Its governance arrangements include a Public Interest Committee, which oversees the public interest aspects of its standard-setting processes.
The Consultative Advisory Group provides input on strategic priorities, technical projects and implementation challenges. Sustainability advisory groups contribute specialist expertise, while public consultations and published meeting materials support transparent standard development.
Programs and offerings
IPSASB publishes accounting standards, sustainability reporting standards, Recommended Practice Guidelines, consultation papers and implementation resources. Its inaugural sustainability standard, IPSASB SRS 1, Climate-related Disclosures, was published in January 2026.
These resources help governments, accountants, auditors and finance professionals prepare consistent financial and sustainability disclosures, assess long-term fiscal risks and support evidence-based public financial management.
