KATY GALLAGHER
SHADOW MINISTER FOR FINANCE
SHADOW MINISTER FOR THE PUBLIC SERVICE
SENATOR FOR THE AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

Labor notes the announcement of Mr Philip Gaetjens as the next Secretary of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.
 
We also note that Mr Gaetjens comes to the role after a long term career as a political staffer to Scott Morrison and Peter Costello.  
 
The Prime Minister says he wants to implement immediate and sweeping changes to the Australian Public Service (APS).
 
It is a matter of concern that Mr Morrison has appointed a long term Liberal staffer to implement these changes.
 
The APS review is an important opportunity to implement change in the public service in a positive way, but this review cannot and should not be a vehicle for the Morrison Government to cut jobs or slash services.
 
It is absolutely crucial that the independence of the APS is protected through these changes.
 
Whether Mr Gaetjens is capable of providing the leadership the APS needs at this time remains to be seen.
 
Labor thanks Dr Martin Parkinson for his service over his long and distinguished public service career.