SNEAK PREVIEW: How many public servants is enough?

Between 1991 and 1999, the Keating and Howard Governments reduced staff levels across  Australian Public Service (APS) agencies by almost one third. Since the low point of 1999, staff numbers have gradually returned to 1991 levels.

In the first of a series of publications, CPD's public service program has today released our Staffing the Public Service Report: How many public servants is enough?

The report examines staffing levels and trends during the last 10-20 years and the political rhetoric that has accompanied and (at times) justified these trends. Our analysis highlights a growing proportion of senior level positions, widening gender disparities and a significant under-representation of people with disabilities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees. Women represent more than 80% of part-time APS employees and are over-represented in non-ongoing positions.

Download Staffing the Public Service: How many public servants is enough?

This report is the first installment of the upcoming report on the Australian Public Service. More on this soon.

ROUNDTABLES: The World's Best Public Service?: How we are tracking

Our Public Service Program aims to encourage progressive organisations and individuals to contribute to the public debate about our public service. As part of this, following the release of the first report we will be holding roundtable discussions to present our research findings and discuss public service trends and issues. If you're a public servant or a researcher in this area or think you may have something to contribute, you may be interested in joining us for this much needed discussion.

Event details will be available soon, with roundtables to be held in Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in August. If you're interested in participating, please email James Whelan, CPD's Public Service Research Director at james.whelan(at)cpd.org.au*

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