The Westminster Tradition

What if the real problem in public service reform isn't what we're trying to do, but how we're trying to do it? Caroline, Danielle, and Alison dive deep into a revolutionary approach to government change by examining The Radical How – a framework published by UK innovation foundation Nesta.The conversation unpacks three core principles that could transform public service:start small and test assumptions early rather than pretending to know all answers upfront;build genuinely multidisciplinary teams instead of working in silos; andfocus relentlessly on outcomes for people rather than system outputs.Through concrete examples like COVID testing in the UK and reflections on infrastructure projects that changed course mid-development, we illuminate both the potential and challenges of this approach.But implementing this "radical how" faces significant barriers – from political imperatives that demand certainty to procurement systems that reward the wrong things.We grapple with tough questions about experimenting in people's lives, gaining social license for change, and communicating complex approaches in simple ways.We reflect on how federalism already offers a natural experiment in policy diversity across Australian jurisdictions, though we rarely harness its full potential.Referenced in the episodeNESTA The Radical HowThe radical 1960s schools experiment that created a whole new alphabet - and left thousands of children unable to spellRick Morton Smoking data taken down after link to vape banOur previous episode on Pink Batts and Robodebt - lessons not learnedThis podcast was recorded on Kaurna land, and we recognise Kaurna elders past and present. Always was, always will be. Now for some appropriately bureaucratic disclaimers....While we have tried to be as thorough in our research as busy full time jobs and lives allow, we definitely don’t guarantee that we’ve got all the details right.Please feel free to email us corrections, episode suggestions, or anything else, at thewestminstertraditionpod@gmail.com.Thanks to PanPot audio for our intro and outro music. 'Til next time!

Tom Loosemore, founder of Public Digital and former civil servant, played a pivotal role in the Universal Credit reset. He reveals how the initial approach misdiagnosed Universal Credit as a tech issue instead of a complex one. Loosemore emphasizes the importance of adaptable teams and a clear vision, or 'North Star,' to navigate challenges. He shares insights about fostering psychological safety, maintaining political accountability, and the need for continuous user testing, all critical for successful digital transformation in government.

The podcast dives into the journey of transforming Universal Credit from failure to success. It discusses the importance of a user-centered approach in reform, highlighting generational differences in adapting to changes. Listeners will find insights on navigating welfare reform during austerity and the swift actions taken during the COVID-19 pandemic. There's also a focus on redefining success in societal reforms and embracing a test and learn framework, particularly with the potential of younger generations to lead impactful change.

Explore the ambitious Universal Credit reform in the UK and its dramatic transformation from vision to chaos. Delve into the complexities of public policy, including the critical role of strong leadership and clear goals. Hear about the implications of radical transparency amidst challenges and the importance of collaboration in driving change. Discover fascinating historical insights and the impact of systems like NDIS on Australia's reform landscape. This engaging discussion raises questions about the feasibility of sweeping reforms in today’s context.

Alison, Caroline, and Danielle delve into Amanda Vanstone's experiences as a minister, highlighting her commitment to understanding through inquiry and accountability. They explore quirky topics like the generational curse of ALL CAPS thank you notes and the simplistic wisdom of children's questions. The conversation touches on the often-overlooked role of women in history, the complex dynamics between ministers and public servants, and the challenges of effectively communicating policy. Humor and real-world anecdotes spice up their insightful discussion on governance.

Amanda Vanstone, a former Senator for South Australia and seasoned minister, offers a fascinating look into her political journey spanning over two decades. She discusses the importance of accountability and hands-on leadership, emphasizing the need for direct engagement with junior staff and real-world reporting. Vanstone’s pragmatic approach led to significant reforms, including the impactful creation of Centrelink. Her candid insights reveal the courage needed to drive change and the complexities of navigating government dynamics, all while underscoring the essence of ministerial responsibility.

Explore the intriguing concept of efficiency in public service, challenging traditional austerity approaches. Delve into the balance needed for budget management and the cultural defensiveness that hinders reform. Discover how attrition affects staffing and efficiency, and analyze the disconnect in resource allocation within agencies. The evolving role of unions amidst budget cuts and the need for strategic adaptation also come into play. Finally, confront the complex narratives surrounding government budgets and the imperative for clear communication in navigating efficiency.

Surfing a wave of listener feelings about this topic, Danielle takes us through the experience of public service recruitment from the other side.Danielle and Alison argue about the merits of requiring 'in house' recruitment before externally advertising positionsThe role that conservative (perhaps inexpert??) local budget management plays in driving a cycle of vacancies and short term contractsHow complex recruitment processes make the public service less and less like the public we serveEzra Klein's podcast episode In This House, We're Angry When Government FailsThe good, the bad and the ugly of external recruitersThis podcast was recorded on Kaurna land, and we recognise Kaurna elders past and present. Always was, always will be. Now for some appropriately bureaucratic disclaimers....While we have tried to be as thorough in our research as busy full time jobs and lives allow, we definitely don’t guarantee that we’ve got all the details right.Please feel free to email us corrections, episode suggestions, or anything else, at thewestminstertraditionpod@gmail.com.Thanks to PanPot audio for our intro and outro music. 'Til next time!

Australia's national elections are heating up as Parliament is prorogued. The discussion dives into caretaker conventions, highlighting their role in ensuring accountability amidst political turmoil. Listeners get insightful tips on managing election periods as public servants, mixed with humorous anecdotes about the complexities of incoming government briefs. The importance of transparency and neutrality in political governance is emphasized, alongside the unique challenges faced by new ministers navigating their roles. Plus, a tribute to a legendary public servant adds a celebratory touch!

Delve into the chaotic world of public sector recruitment! Hear about the emotional rollercoaster of being ghosted after interviews. Discover the madness behind quirky job requirements like 'interstate travel' and driving skills—can Caroline's sister really change a tire? Enjoy the concept of an X factor button for awkward interviews. Listeners share their bizarre experiences, revealing transparency issues and inefficiencies in the hiring process. It's a humorous and insightful look at a frustrating journey toward public service roles!