New Zealand’s 2021 Public Service Census shows Government workers are strongly motivated by a spirit of service and are in the job to make a difference for the communities they serve.
The census found that most public servants (84 per cent) were strongly motivated to stay working in the Public Service because their work contributed positively to society.
It found that making a positive contribution to society was the most common (57 per cent) reason people joined the Public Service, while 89 per cent understood how their work led to improved outcomes for communities.
The survey found 77 per cent of Public Servants were in the job because their work helped people in the community and 63 per cent stayed because of their belief in the purpose and principles of the Public Service.
Public Service Commissioner, Peter Hughes said the census results were very pleasing and proved that what united the Public Service was a spirit of service to the community.
“The results show what I have always believed — Public Servants are motivated by something bigger than themselves, a higher purpose,” Mr Hughes (pictured) said.
“It’s coming to work every day wanting to make a difference for New Zealand and the communities we serve,” he said.
Nearly 40,000 Public Servants from 36 Agencies responded to the survey in May and June of this year.
Mr Hughes said it was in times of crisis, like the COVID-19 pandemic, that the spirit of service uniting Public Servants came to the fore.
“Every day, all around the country Public Servants are doing great work to make a difference for New Zealand and New Zealanders.
“They deserve our support and recognition,” he said.
Wellington, 7 November 2021
