The Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) has released the findings of a review of the APS classification structure which recommends it reduce its 13 current classifications to eight.
In their independent report, the review team of Heather Smith, Kathryn Fagg and Finn Pratt also recommended the numerical classifications in the APS structure be abandoned with descriptive job titles referring instead to staff members’ roles.
Unveiling the report APS Hierarchy and Classification Review, APS Commissioner, Peter Woolcott said the review looked at how the APS could reduce its hierarchy, adopt the best practice ways of working and make the best use of the capability and expertise the entire APS could deliver.
Mr Woolcott said the APS would act on many of the findings of the Review but would not be making changes to classifications at this stage.
“A key theme of the Review is strengthening APS culture and capability, and we will begin our work there,” Mr Woolcott said.
“I strongly support the aspiration to modernise the way we operate in the APS, to better position ourselves to meet future challenges and provide more rewarding careers for our people.”
He said that as the APS rose to the opportunities ahead, its culture “must continue to evolve – to better value people for their contribution regardless of rank, to actively grow great leaders, and to embrace flexible and modern ways of working.”
“This is an exciting time for the APS, as we work with Government to drive positive change for Australians,” Mr Woolcott said.
“I thank the independent review panel and all those who contributed to their work, including through the public consultation process,” Mr Woolcott said.
In other recommendations, the Review also proposed that:
* Staff members progress within classifications through transparent assessment driven by proficiency, skills development and workforce planning;
* Future leaders, particularly the EL2/Manager cohort, be trained urgently in management and leadership;
* Specialists be recognised for the value of their work within the new classifications;
* The Secretaries Board implement spans for senior management roles;
* The role of APS Commissioner be strengthened to become Chief People Officer for APS management; and
* The Secretaries Board adopt a Charter of Leadership Behaviours for APS leaders to promote collaborative behaviours.
“This is an exciting time for the APS, as we work with Government to drive positive change for Australians,” Mr Woolcott said.
“I thank the independent review panel and all those who contributed to their work, including through the public consultation process,” he said.
The 58-page APS Hierarchy and Classification Review can be accessed on the APSC website at this PS News link.
