GG 08/13
07 February 2013
Significant reforms to the Australian Public Service were approved by the Senate today with bipartisan support from the Government and Opposition parties.
The Public Service Amendment Bill previously passed through the House of Representatives with unanimous support on August 20 last year.
Public Service Minister Gary Gray thanked the Coalition for its support of the legislation.
The Bill strengthens governance arrangements for Australian Public Service leadership, including reforms that strengthen the independence of Secretaries and provide a clear statement of their role. The Bill also introduces a clearer, shorter statement of the APS Values, reinforcing the importance of a positive culture and environment for a high performing public service.
Other reforms set out more clearly the role of the Public Service Commissioner as a central authority for the development and stewardship of the Service, and make practical improvements that address operational matters that have arisen since the last major change in 1999.
The Bill gives effect to recommendations of the Advisory Group on the Reform of Australian Government Administration, in its report Ahead of the Game: Blueprint for the Reform of Australian Government Administration.
“The reforms passed by the Senate today will provide Australia with a public service that is modern, agile and responsive, leading to a more efficient and effective use of Commonwealth’s resources and benefitting all Australians,” Mr Gray said.
“The Australian Public Service is fundamental to the success of our country and our society. The commitment and expertise of our public service directly affects the lives of all Australians.”
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