The Westminster Tradition

Explore the shocking history of the Oakden aged care facility, where systemic abuse and neglect led to a royal commission in 2017. Discover the critical failures in management and compliance that left residents vulnerable for years. The discussion reveals why crisis responses are often swift, yet long-term changes are resistant to implementation. Insights from past staff highlight a culture that stifled improvement. Tune in for reflections on the struggle to address both immediate needs and deeper systemic issues in aged care.

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.

Mike Kaiser, the former Director General of the Department of Premier and Cabinet in Queensland, shares insights from his extensive career in public service. He discusses the complex relationship between political offices and public servants, emphasizing the need for better communication. Kaiser delves into the ethical dilemmas of the RoboDebt scheme and the importance of accountability. He critiques public sector inefficiencies and highlights the significance of effective leadership. The conversation also addresses necessary reforms in leadership competencies to enhance public service delivery.

The discussion dives into the evolution of diversity and recruitment practices in the Australian Public Service. Key historical reports from 1974 and 2019 paint a picture of progress and ongoing challenges in gender equity. First Nations representation is critically examined, highlighting both advancements and barriers faced by Aboriginal professionals. The importance of supportive work environments is stressed, as well as the need for a broader definition of workforce diversity that includes socio-economic status. It's a candid look at inclusivity in public service.

Dive into the tangled web of the National Anti-Corruption Commission and the controversial RoboDebt saga. Discover the chaos surrounding halted investigations and the quest for transparency amid conflicts of interest. The conversation dissects the fine line between maladministration and corruption while highlighting unequal accountability in public service. Recent ethical shifts and cultural narratives shape the landscape, raising questions about leadership and the future of public trust in the wake of significant scandals.

The discussion dives into the challenging investigation of the Horizon system, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right investigators who truly understand retail dynamics. Concerns about bias in consulting reports are raised, highlighting pitfalls of relying on larger firms. The speakers debate the effectiveness of slide decks versus traditional reports, stressing clear communication. They also ponder the complexities of forming actionable recommendations from inquiries, underlining the need for inclusivity and clarity to better engage stakeholders.

The podcast dives into the tangled investigations surrounding the Post Office's Horizon system. Multiple inquiries failed to uncover the truth, showcasing poor review processes and leadership oversight. Key figures discuss the importance of procedural fairness and the challenges faced in initiating meaningful investigations without a government link. The complexities of drafting effective inquiry terms are examined, shedding light on how biases can hinder accountability. Finally, the mental health impacts of past decisions are explored, emphasizing the need for clarity in evaluations.

Diversity and inclusion in the public sector face systemic barriers, exposing a gap between commitment and practice. People management surveys may overlook deeper issues, complicating the pursuit of employee wellbeing. An integrity-driven culture is essential, with open communication needed for employee safety. Recruitment policies are scrutinized for their impact on power dynamics and work environments. The podcast emphasizes storytelling as a method for learning from past mistakes and promoting ethical decision-making.

Thanks for the questions folks!This 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!

The Australian Public Service Commission's findings on the Robodebt scandal take center stage, revealing misconduct among public servants. Discussions explore the cultural pressures that hinder accountability and the need for ethical leadership. The conversation reflects on individual accountability while emphasizing the vital importance of transparency within organizations. Listeners are urged to consider the tragic implications for victims, advocating for genuine governmental accountability and change. The critics weigh in on the disconnect between bureaucratic interests and real human suffering.