Westminster

The political neutrality of a sovereign head of state in a constitutional monarchy also goes to the core of the Westminster system that operates in Australia.

The established craft of public administration is fit for purpose based on incorporating incremental changes and improvements over time, based on its unique logic: ‘The Craft of Public Administration: Perspectives from Australia’.

One of the more interesting ideas that emerged from the Australian Public Service Review this week was a move towards “common pay”, but as excitement buzzed the review chair realised something was amiss.

Sir John Key says public servants and ministers alike need to respect Westminster traditions — leaks weaken “the bonds of trust and respect” between the two — and go back to the basics of building support for a political agenda, to earn public trust.

Westminster may have started them, but Australia’s conventions also reflect our values and expectations. Their dependency on political sanction makes transparency essential, argues Richard Mulgan.