Understand the context and motivations behind the minister’s request, recommends Gillard CoS Ben Hubbard — and don’t be an ‘adviser denier’

Ben Hubbard twice worked as chief of staff to Julia Gillard — in separate stints as deputy prime minister and PM.

He was CEO of the Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority, coordinating recovery efforts after the Black Saturday fires. He also worked for Victorian premiers John Brumby and Steve Bracks.

He discusses public servants working with the minister’s office, how to be a CoS, and fixing the staffer system.

Public servants and ministerial offices don’t always see eye to eye, but a better understanding of each other’s motives can help bridge the gap, says Ben Hubbard.