Improving local public service through better connections - 13 February 2008
Local public servants from all levels of government are set to have their networking skills sharpened with first-of-its-kind training later this month.
The Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA), which will conduct the training, encourages excellence in the public sector through promotion of best practice methods so public servants can more effectively serve the community.
South West Development Commission chief executive officer Don Punch said the group normally provided training in the metropolitan area, but for the first time would conduct regional training in Bunbury.
“The training is designed to improve the capacity of the public service to better serve the community, whether it be at a local, State or Federal level,” he said.
“This month’s seminar will be on getting connected across the region, in an effort to improve coordination and communication among agencies and service providers.
“In today’s public service we find ourselves working with several government departments to get big ideas to happen.
“The public sector needs the skills to collaborate, influence and network effectively to successfully implement policies and projects.
“We can also learn what other departments are doing well, take it back to our own agency and apply it there.
“The result is hopefully better and more efficient services for people who deal with us.
“It is a great opportunity for local public servants to tap into top level, relevant training. I hope this month’s event is well supported so we see more IPAA involvement in the region in the future.”
Mr Punch said providing training helped retain people in the public service.
“The whole point of the public service is to serve the public as the name suggests. It requires a high degree of commitment and professionalism to do that,” he said.
“We want to retain these people. Providing training that enhances their professional careers is one aspect needed to achieve that.”
This month’s half-day event will be held at Sanctuary Golf Resort on February 26. For more information call Anna Oades 9792 2000.
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Media contact:
Scott Maclean