This report explains our work in relation to the four key priorities as outlined in our Strategic plan 2020-23. It also reports on the extent to which we have delivered on our statutory objectives, which are to:
- strengthen the efficiency, effectiveness and capability of the public sector in order to meet existing and emerging needs and deliver high quality services
- maintain, and advocate for, public sector professionalism and integrity.
Throughout the year, we continued to support departments and agencies to address critical workforce management requirements in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, working closely with key stakeholders to further embed the flexible work policy.
We also coordinated regular executive forums to facilitate learnings from practice and explore new approaches to leadership that support an adaptive, responsive and resilient public sector, in a post-pandemic world.
In addition, the Commission delivered on an extensive program of work focused on promoting and advocating for an impartial and professional public sector, especially in the context of federal and state elections.
Other key achievements include:
- In response to Recommendation 76 of the COVID-19 Hotel Quarantine Inquiry, we published Informing and advising ministers: guidance to secretaries about their responsibilities.
- New Suburban Hubs in Dandenong, Essendon Fields, Mulgrave and Williams Landing were added to the flexible workspace options for public sector employees.
- We launched a trial program of TAFE-accredited short courses and micro-credentials for public servants, targeting core public sector skills in policy, procurement, and regulatory services among others.
- Work commenced developing a professions model pilot, designed to connect Victorian Government employees with people and practice that aligns with their job function and career path.
- We convened almost 2,000 public servants across a four-day program of digital and in-person events that brought together academics, international experts and First Nations leaders to explore everyday innovation that will help the workforce respond to future challenges.
For the first time, the Commission published online the individual 2021 People matter survey results of over 280 public sector organisations, demonstrating our commitment to a transparent and accountable public sector.
This year’s State of the Public Sector data releases also incorporated new data visualisation software, with interactive accessible charts, added filters for key demographics and downloadable data.
In late-2021, we commissioned an independent evaluation of Barring Djinang, the Aboriginal employment strategy for the public sector. I’m pleased that the evaluation recommended that all programs and initiatives continue to be delivered. In response, we’ve committed to an additional 12 months of funding to continue this important program of work, while we review and redevelop the Barring Djinang strategy.
In closing, I’d like to welcome the Commission’s new advisory board members Tasneem Chopra OAM, Professor Janine O’Flynn and Greg Smith AM to the Victorian Public Sector Commission Advisory Board. The advisory board provides strategic advice in relation to matters relevant to the objectives and functions of the Commission. Appointed on 6 June 2022, they join Chair, Jeremi Moule, Secretary, Department of Premier and Cabinet.
I also wish to acknowledge Julia Griffith PSM, who retired from her role of Deputy Commissioner in January 2022, and thank her for her extensive contribution over a long career in the public service.
As we head into the final year of our current Strategic plan 2020-23, the Commission’s experienced and energetic executive team is focused on supporting and guiding a Victorian public sector that delivers exceptional outcomes for the Victorian community.
Adam Fennessy PSM 1
Commissioner
Victorian Public Sector Commission
1
Adam Fennessy left the Commission on 16 September 2022. Ella McPherson was Acting Commissioner from 17 September until Greg Wilson commenced on 25 October 2022.