Peter Henneken reflects on the different approaches of the Bjelke-Petersen and Goss governments to public sector management. He states that public servants were largely left alone during the Bjelke-Petersen Government. He also argues that public servants were ready for a change. He recalls his memories of the reform process.
Peter Henneken discusses federal-state relations with regards to labour market reform. He compares the policy resources of the Commonwealth Public Service as opposed to various the state bureaucracies with reference to labour policy.
Peter Henneken discusses his relationship with the ministers he served under. He touches on the internal politics of the Liberal Party. He notes the freedom that bureaucrats had over policy during this period. He discusses the culture in the public service under the Bjelke-Petersen regime.
Lesley Clark discusses relationships within the public service under Goss and Beattie. She emphasises the importance of personality and reflects on the roles of Kevin Rudd and Ken Smith. She discusses the public service reforms introduced by the Goss Government.
Lesley Clark describes her career trajectory. She discusses the political culture of Barron River and the reasons she won in 1989. She lost in 1995 in the swing against the Goss Government. She highlights the role of the conservation movement in her defeat.
Frank Peach discusses the changes to the public service following the reforms of the Goss Government. He discusses the historical changes in the role of director general and the impacts of election promises on policy direction. Frank Peach provides some detailed commentary on the limitations and challenges associated with New Public Management.
Ken Smith describes his learning curve in Queensland politics upon his arrival. He notes the decline in the way executive government was managed in NSW at this time. He notes the vitality and talent that was underpinning the reform changes post-Fitzgerald Inquiry.
David Hamill comments on the mobility of the SES across departments as part of the public sector reform and the advice that the Premier received regarding this type of reform.
