PSA Media Release

PSA calls for review of State Sector Act

The Public Service Association is today calling for a review of the State Sector Act 1988 in response to Treasury papers released under the Official Information Act that claim the public service is not spending money effectively.

The PSA represents over 52,000 public service workers in central and local government, the health sector and in community services.

“The current legislation undermines the ability of the public service to adopt a collaborative approach to public administration,” said Richard Wagstaff, PSA National Secretary.

“The State Sector Act is an outdated piece of legislation which should be reviewed to ensure that a whole of government approach to the delivery of public services can be a reality.”

“A more collaborative approach to public services would improve the quality of public services and ensure that further government investment in public services is effective.”

The government conducted a review of the public management system in 2001 which concluded that better integration of services and reduced fragmentation were priority areas in need of attention.

“It is clear that to improve integration of services, there needs to be more than a change in management style or culture."

“A review of the legislative base of the public service is required to ensure collaboration throughout the public service,” said Richard Wagstaff.

The PSA is working with UK based group Demos to consider how the public services needs to adopt to meet the changing needs of our society and economy. A paper will be released in November outlining a new vision for public services.

ENDS

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