Government advertising guidelines

2.97 The government has a responsibility to keep the public informed about important issues of the day and to ensure that the public is aware of services to which they are entitled. The government keeps the public informed through, for example, print, visual, or sound media, and appearances at conferences and other gatherings.

2.98 The Guidelines for Government Advertising (see appendix B) assist Ministers and government departments in preparing advertising and publicity, and in the expenditure of public funds for this purpose. The State Services Commission is available to provide advice to departments on the guidelines, particularly if conduct and integrity issues arise. The Office of the Controller and Auditor-General is also available to provide advice, particularly as to probity and financial management.

2.99 Under the Electoral Finance Act 2007, special considerations apply to government advertising during an election year. The State Services Commission's guidance to departments in an election year includes guidance relating to the Act. (See www.ssc.govt.nz.)