Gerard Bradley discusses the unique role of Treasury in the 1980s. He notes that Treasury was a key player in the major investments into Queensland at the time. He notes the relationship between Treasury and the Coordinator General at the time.
Gerard Bradley describes the reasons behind setting up a research division in Treasury and the need to think about how government worked and how best to allocate resources. He notes the importance of Leo Hielscher as a role model in his early years in the public service.
Gerard Bradley discusses the relationship between Treasury and the Queensland government when he joined the public service in the 1970s. He notes his move from the finance area of Treasury to the area of research and development that did commercial work. This new role, in the 1980s, drew him into quoting rail freight prices and negotiating with coal companies, as well as gas development and sugar pricing.
Jim Fouras discusses his relationship with the public service while in the shadow ministry, the difficulty of obtaining support or information, and the importance of public service leaks in exposing corruption.
Erik Finger discusses the relationship between Main Roads and other departments, particularly Treasury and Transport, and the impact of the 1987 Savage Review of the public service.
Peter Beattie speaks about the reforms to the Labor Party in the 1980s, the recognition that a strong public service was required to deliver the party's new policy directions, and the importance of key senior public servants during the Bjelke-Petersen era.
Mike Ahern outlines the development of the technology portfolio, specifically the establishment of technology parks. He also comments on the budgetary process of getting funding for projects.