Workplace dynamics in New Zealand public services : A survey report prepared for the Public Service Association (PSA) : Te Pukenga Here Tikanga Mahi

Abstract

The PSA is pleased to have commissioned this third report1 in our ongoing research collaboration with Victoria University’s Centre for Labour, Employment and Work. The report provides valuable evidence about what is and what is not working in public and community sector workplaces. Those interested in effective public services should read this report, as should those interested in what it takes to create and maintain high-performing workplaces where people have a decent experience of work. The survey shows that people working in public and community services have a high level of commitment to the work they do and are driven by the desire to make a difference. They work under an expectation that more will be done with less. Public and community sector organisations are under pressure to be more innovative and flexible while the expectations of ministers and the public rise and budgets shrink. The PSA is of the view that both to more effectively deliver public and community services and to improve people’s day to day experience at work there needs to be significant change to workplace culture and the way people are managed. This report provides evidence of the strengths of the workforce, some opportunities for effective change and the barriers that need to be overcome.