Jim O'Sullivan discusses the incoming Beattie Government Police Minister, Tom Barton, and his decision to retire as Police Commissioner in 2000 rather than renew his contract.
Jim O'Sullivan outlines the dedicated implementation of reform under the Goss Government, particularly the introduction of merit-based appointments, and the Borbidge Government's less enthusiastic promulgation of the reform agenda.
David Williams outlines the highlights and major achievements of his time working in government. He notes that the portfolio areas for which he had responsibility were more measurable in terms of success than other areas of government. He states that, while having no regrets, there were decisions about particular events that might in hindsight have been reconsidered.
David Williams outlines the performance-based contracts that public service heads were signed to under the Beattie government, describing the expectations that he and other senior executives faced. He speaks about how his department supported the government's agenda.
David Williams describes his part in the state government's decision to renovate the football stadium at Brisbane's Lang Park. He notes that, despite controversy surrounding the decision, it was a more cost-effective option than alternative proposals such as redevelopment of the RNA showgrounds near the Royal Brisbane Hospital.
David Williams recalls his move back to the role of Director General after the Beattie government won office in 1998. He speaks about additional administrative changes and the positioning of agencies in his department's different portfolio areas. He mentions how having a new and junior Minister later impacted upon his role.
David Williams comments on the challenges of stepping into the role of Director General from the Events Corporation. He recalls his surprise at the professionalism and intellectual rigour within different levels of the public service. He speaks of the importance of administrative processes and personnel management in handling his department's different portfolio areas.
Paul Fennelly gives his impressions of the early Beattie government and its relations with industry and the business sector in Queensland. He comments on that government's strong relations with the university sector, and how these as well as its industry links helped to establish the Smart State agenda. He describes how, after three years with the AI Group in Victoria, he returned to enter the Queensland public service.
Paul Fennelly talks about gaining access to the different levels of government as a spokesperson on behalf of various industries. He mentions some of the Queensland government figures that he found attentive to his representations. He compares these activities to his experiences while working for AI Group in Victoria and the different industrial environment in that state.
