The Westminster Tradition Ask a Secretary! Mike Kaiser (former) head of the Department of Premier and Cabinet (Qld)
Jan 13, 2025
Mike Kaiser, former Director General of Queensland's Department of Premier and Cabinet, shares his insights on the intricate dynamics of public service. He discusses the challenges junior staff face when seeking guidance from senior leaders and the importance of a supportive culture. The conversation also delves into workplace culture during festive seasons and the necessity of accountability in public service. Kaiser highlights the complexities of navigating partnerships for energy transitions and the critical need for robust whistleblower protections to ensure integrity.
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Mentorship and Approachability
- Be approachable and accessible to junior staff, offering career guidance and advice.
- Pay forward the mentorship you received and share your knowledge to build a stronger public service culture.
Holiday Gift-Giving Etiquette
- Avoid excessive gift-giving during the holidays; it can create awkwardness.
- A small token of appreciation for close staff is sufficient.
Silos and Accountability
- Government department silos are a design feature of the Westminster system, creating accountability challenges.
- Accountabilities are individual, but complex societal problems require cross-departmental collaboration.
