APS Commissioner Dr Gordon de Brouwer has candidly addressed the difficulties faced by both the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) and the Australian Public Service (APS). 

In the APSC's annual report, Dr de Brouwer says the robodebt royal commission was a poignant example of integrity challenges.

“We heard, with empathy, the testimonies of people affected by the robodebt scheme through the royal commission hearings and the failures and mistakes of public servants, as well as instances of courage,” Dr de Brouwer wrote.

“The APSC is responsible for the whole-of-service code of conduct process following the release of the royal commission report, which it will implement with objectivity and fairness.

“More generally, the APSC will play a significant role in working with the public service to strengthen integrity and work practices when the APS Integrity Taskforce report and government’s response to the royal commission recommendations are released.”

Earlier this year, the APSC appointed Stephen Sedgwick and Penny Shakespeare to investigate alleged code of conduct breaches stemming from the royal commission findings. 

Despite the passage of 15 weeks since the final report's publication, the government is yet to respond to its recommendations.

Dr de Brouwer also expressed his appreciation for his predecessor, Peter Woolcott, who left the commission earlier in the year.

“My vision over the next five years will be to deliver a world-leading service, an APS that is a great place to work with rewarding careers for our people, and an unwavering focus on integrity and capability,” the APS commissioner said.

Regarding the APSC's performance, the annual report noted that the commission had “substantially achieved” its performance measure of bolstering the integrity culture in the APS. 

They acknowledged opportunities to expand existing initiatives, as outlined in the 2023–27 Corporate Plan. 

One key focus for the APSC in the coming year is exerting a more influential role in upholding the APS Values, APS Employment Principles, and APS Code of Conduct. 

Another priority is establishing effective partnerships with agencies across the APS to promote a pro-integrity culture.