Embedding the APS Values: Case studies and other supporting material

Please note: These documents are for reference purposes only and are no longer considered by the APS Commission to be current. They may contain good practice advice and/or advice on the transitional arrangements between the 1922 and 1999 Public Service Acts.

globe Useful references

Case study 37:
Insolvency and Trustee Service Australia:
Sharing bankruptcy policy responsibility

Background

The Insolvency and Trustee Service Australia (ITSA) became an Executive Agency within the Attorney-General's portfolio in July 2000. Arrangements were made in May 2002 for responsibility for bankruptcy policy to be shared jointly by ITSA and the Attorney-General's Department (AGD). These arrangements enable the minister to draw upon the policy development and advising expertise of the portfolio department as well as ITSA's subject matter expertise and its close relations with the industry sector.

Description

ITSA and AGD have a formal agreement documenting how these arrangements will work. Submissions are only made to the minister following consultation between ITSA and AGD. Issues are generally initiated by ITSA with input sought from the department at an early stage. In relation to nominated large-scale policy development activities, AGD and ITSA are both heavily involved in designing the process and doing the work.

The arrangements also cover ministerial correspondence on bankruptcy policy matters-the replies are generally drafted by ITSA and cleared with AGD.

There are regular liaison meetings between ITSA and AGD and also with the minister's office which include discussion about how these arrangements are working.

Key APS Values

The APS is a career-based service to enhance the effectiveness and cohesion of Australia's democratic system of government. (s. 10(1)(n) of the PS Act)

The APS has leadership of the highest quality. (s. 10(1)(h) of the PS Act)

The APS is apolitical, performing its functions in an impartial and professional manner. (s. 10(1)(a) of the PS Act)

The APS is openly accountable for its actions, within the framework of Ministerial responsibility to the Government, the Parliament and the Australian public. (s. 10(1)(e) of the PS Act)

The APS is responsive to the government in providing frank, honest, comprehensive, accurate and timely advice and in implementing the government's policies and programs. (s. 10(1)(f) of the PS Act)

For more information please contact:

DAVID BERGMAN
PHONE 02 6270 3434
david.bergman@itsa.gov.au