Chair of the Independent Review of the Australian Public Service, David Thodey (pictured) has delivered his panel’s final report to the Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C), Phil Gaetjens.
The panel was asked to review the capability, culture and operating model of the Australian Public Service (APS) and identify a program to guide and accelerate reforms.
Its aim was to ensure the APS was ready to harness the changes that are already transforming the Australian economy and society.
Mr Thodey said that since May 2018, the review has considered 755 submissions, 814 online comments, conducted surveys and research and held more than 400 meetings, workshops and information sessions in communities and cities across every State and Territory.
In delivering the report, Mr Thodey said the panel would like to thank everyone who supported and worked with the review.
“The ideas and insights provided by members of the community, the APS, Parliamentarians and many others have shaped the review’s thinking and advice to the Government,” Mr Thodey said.
“The findings of the review underscore the need for a trusted APS, united in serving all Australians — one that places Australian people at the heart of everything it does.”
He said this required new ways of working to meet the demands of an increasingly connected, changing and complex world, while also harnessing the opportunities technological advances brought — “a capable and accountable APS that collaborates, partners with others and delivers decisively”.
“The panel conducted its review in an open and iterative way, to develop a data-driven and evidence-based platform for change,” Mr Thodey said.
Mr Gaetjens is to refer the review’s report to the Secretaries Board to evaluate its recommendations and prepare a report for Cabinet.
