Terry Hogan compares the relationships between departmental heads and their Ministers at both the state and federal levels of government. He notes that while Commonwealth department heads typically dealt more in strategic policy, they tended to be more removed from practical application of policy than their state counterparts. He also comments on the relative quality of Ministers at state and federal levels, and on the introduction of ways to encourage policy coordination.
John Mickel discusses the relationship between the Goss Government and the public service. He highlights the different public service expectations of the Bjelke-Petersen and Goss governments. He discusses the role of the Office of Cabinet.
Bob Quinn explains his decision to retain Frank Peach as the Director General of Education. He states that ministers had a lot of control over the appointment of directors general for their departments. He describes allowing Peach to take responsibility for hiring and firing in the department. He discusses political appointments to the public service.
Paul Reynolds notes the differences in ministerial conduct between the Queensland governments and the increased reliance on the public service in the Bjelke-Petersen government.
Tony McGrady outlines his first ministry of Resource Industries. He describes work changing the energy sector. He discusses the importance of the relationship with the director general.
