Australian Public Service Commissioner
The Australian Public Service Commissioner is a pivotal role within the Australian Public Service Commission, a statutory agency of the Australian Government that operates within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. The Commissioner plays a crucial role in ensuring the effective functioning and integrity of the Australian Public Service (APS).
The Australian Public Service Commissioner is tasked with providing leadership to the APS, ensuring that it upholds the highest standards of public administration and public policy. This includes overseeing the implementation of policies that promote an efficient, effective, and accountable public service sector. The Commissioner also advises on maintaining integrity and ethical standards across the service.
One of the key initiatives under the Australian Public Service Commission is the APS Academy, a network hub dedicated to learning and development to build craft capabilities within the APS. This initiative aims to prepare the workforce for future challenges and enhance their skills for effective public service delivery.
Additionally, the Commissioner is responsible for organizing events such as the State of the Service Roadshow, an annual series featuring speakers from various sectors of the APS to discuss current developments and focus areas.
The role of the Australian Public Service Commissioner has been filled by several notable figures. For instance, Lynelle Jann Briggs and Steve Sedgwick have previously served in this capacity. As of May 2023, Gordon de Brouwer has been serving as the Commissioner, bringing his extensive experience as the Secretary for Public Sector Reform to the position.
The Merit Protection Commissioner is another significant role within the APS framework, providing employment services and ensuring merit-based practices are upheld within the sector. This role operates independently but in conjunction with the responsibilities of the Public Service Commissioner.
Recently, the APSC has been focusing on reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity, demonstrating a zero-tolerance policy towards issues like antisemitism. The Commission is continually working towards creating a more inclusive and diverse workplace across the APS.