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.
John Strano discusses the role that Treasury played in funding many of the Smart State strategies. He details the policy where two million dollars was offered to investors, as well as the policy on concessions on payroll tax to big projects, which did not have to go through Treasury. The importance of strong political leadership is important, he believes, in getting projects through Treasury.
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.
Leo Hielscher outlines his shift from head of Treasury to take up an appointment as the inaugural chairperson of the Queensland Treasury Corporation. He discusses his work in the private sector on company boards and in charities.
