While some professionals encounter certain standards on a daily basis, other practitioners require a review of standards that they fail to encounter regularly in their work. Accordingly, this workshop focuses on general PSAS concepts, the structure of the PSAS handbook, and differences between PSAS and those of ASPE or IFRS. The comparison of PSAS concepts with those in ASPE or IFRS allow attendees to understand new ideas on the basis of their background knowledge, thus enhancing learning potential. Although the session involves lectures, the workshop occurs in modules that link relevant concepts together and allow time for interactive questions and discussions. Specifically, the workshop uses collaborative learning, industry examples, and small case studies to keep participants engaged.

• Preparers of public sector financial statements (e.g., CFOs, directors of finance, managers, and accounting staff). 
• Auditors of public sector financial statements (e.g., partners, senior managers, managers, and senior auditors). 
• Board or audit committee members and senior management of public sector entities and governments. 
• Professionals working with governments, municipalities, First Nations, and government-controlled entities. 

By the end of this course, participants should be able to: 

• Explain the PSAS reporting framework and the role of the conceptual framework. 
• Compare key PSAS concepts with ASPE and IFRS to understand similarities and differences. 
• Identify significant upcoming PSAS changes and where they affect presentation and disclosure. 
• Apply PSAS concepts to common public sector scenarios using case exercises. 

Topics include: 

• PSAS handbook structure, conceptual framework, and financial statement presentation (including PS 1202 developments). 
• Government reporting entity, controlled entities, government business enterprises, partnerships, and consolidation. 
• Revenue standards: PS 3400, government transfers, tax revenue, restricted assets and revenues. 
• Financial instruments, foreign exchange, and remeasurement gains and losses. 
• Asset retirement obligations and liabilities for contaminated sites. 
• Tangible capital assets and impairment; purchased intangibles and cloud computing costs; leases; public-private partnerships. 
• Contractual rights and obligations; contingent assets and liabilities; related party and inter-entity transactions; restructuring transactions. 
• Employee benefits and pensions; loans receivable and loan guarantees. 
• Additional PSAS matters: GAAP hierarchy, public sector guidelines, SORPs, and selected case studies. 

Live webinars have varying levels of expected interaction, with some requiring microphone and camera capabilities to support a proper learning experience – please email pdreg@bccpa.ca if you have concerns. 

In general, we encourage participants to have their cameras turned on to enhance their virtual learning experience. This practice promotes a stronger connection with the instructor and fellow participants, and fosters improved communication and collaboration.

Live Webinar FAQs can be found here.  

Registration terms and conditions, including the cancellation policy can be found here. If you require further assistance, please contact the PD Department.