Have you ever considered a career in the public service? Now could be the perfect time. In the last year, the number of federal public servants has risen by nearly 10 per cent, with this trend expected to continue. According to the recent federal budget, the public service will grow by 9 per cent to over 300,000, meaning more positions are available. As a result, the public service is expected to grow 25 per cent larger than it was before the pandemic. This growth will occur across a variety of Federal Government departments.
So why is the public service growing, and which areas are seeking new staff?
With thanks to the Herald Sun, the Australian Financial Review, and The Australian, we explore what these changes mean for the public service and those seeking to enter it.
How the Australian Public Service is growing
Consultants have recently been causing many negative headlines. Price Waterhouse Cooper experienced negative headlines with claims it sold confidential government tax advice to its clients. In response to this bad press, the Albanese Government announced a strategy to reduce its reliance on consultants and contractors in the recent federal budget. For example, it aims to minimise outsourcing to firms such as Price Waterhouse Cooper, Ernst & Young, Deloitte and Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler. Outsourcing is a trend that has increased in recent years, costing $624 million in 2021-22. Instead, the government aims to have more tasks performed in-house by public servants. The government has pitched this as an opportunity to rebuild the public service. This is framed as a cost-saving measure, with the government tipped to save $4 billion over four years.
This is good news for those looking to enter the public service, as it will create an additional 2,500 roles in the public service.
The government says that delivering outcomes for Australians must be based on the foundations of a strong public service.
There’s also positive news for those looking to work for Services Australia. The government says it wants to reduce backlogs and address under-resourcing in the agency. As a result, the agency will see the most significant staffing increase in the public service, increasing its headcount by 7,500. Many of these roles were previously performed by contractors.
1,800 new roles will be created in the Department of Social Services, many of which were previously outsourced.
These will not be the only areas of the public service to see growth, with plenty of other opportunities available as well. Other departments that will see continued growth are the National Disability Insurance Scheme, the Department Of Veterans Affairs and the Australian Taxation Office. The Department Of Home Affairs will also add extra staff to help improve visa wait times.
The government also requires increased staff to manage the Future Made In Australia fund and support energy transition and national security measures.
If you have ever thought about a career in the public service, there’s no better time to explore the wide range of careers on offer.
If you are eager to begin a career in the public service but are unsure where to start, Public Service Resumes can assist you. We are pleased to offer various services, including our resume and cover letter writing service.