The review panel considering the future of the Australian Public Service (APS) has revealed its four priorities for future change to ensure the APS remains ‘fit for purpose’.
Unveiled by Chair of the panel, David Thodey at the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra, the priorities have been developed to equip the APS to be a trusted Public Service united in serving all Australians.
Mr Thodey (pictured) identified the four priorities for change as:
* Strengthening the culture, governance and leadership model;
* Building a flexible operating model;
* Investing in capability and talent development; and
* Developing stronger internal and external partnerships.
He said each priority would be supported by a range of specific initiatives and actions.
“We need a strong and confident Public Service, with the interests of the Australian people at the heart of all it does, as it serves the Government and Parliament,” Mr Thodey said.
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to harness all the skills, insights and energy of the broad, diverse APS, built on a foundation of trust, to best serve Australia and its people.”
He said this would require a fundamental reset of the relationship between the APS and its stakeholders as well as meaning significant changes to the Service so it was empowered, not encumbered, by its processes, rules and structures.
“None of these changes will endure if we do not also prioritise the APS workforce itself,” Mr Thodey said.
“This includes boosting its leadership, capability and diversity — and supporting all staff to be professional Public Servants in the 21 st century.”
The panel is to deliver its findings and recommendations to the Prime Minister in mid-2019.
Mr Thodey’s speech announcing the priorities can be accessed at this PS News link.
