KPMG loses Lendlease audit contract after whistleblower data breach

Lendlease announced it is reviewing and may terminate its 68‑year audit relationship with KPMG following a whistleblower revelation that a KPMG audit partner illicitly accessed the construction giant's boardroom documents. The breach was described as a "related conduct" matter, and Lendlease said the actions were "not acceptable" and that it will consider alternative auditors after FY26 reporting.

The scandal prompted the abrupt resignation of KPMG Australia’s former CEO Andrew Yates and senior partner Julian McPherson. The whistleblower alleged that confidential board papers had been used to win new audit work at Westpac, Dexus and a $75 million‑a‑year contract with Macquarie. KPMG had previously downplayed the breach, calling the documents of "low sensitivity" and claiming no competitive advantage was gained.