The politicization of the APS is a national disgrace.
The role, function, professionalism and morale of the APS are grievously undermined by:
1) ministers prepared to disregard Westminster convention in the dismissal or appointment of public servants for personal or political reasons;
2) the loss of senior public servants able or willing to advise ministers without fear or favour;
3) undue influence exercised by ministerial courtiers and corporate lobbyists;
4) political meddling in the staffing and operations of government and related agencies
5) a pervasive lack of appreciation of the public good as a guiding principle;
6) an ignorance of the fundamental imperatives of the separation of powers, and
7) inadequate or inappropriate funding and staffing of government and related agencies.
The checks and balances required to strengthen the APS and protect it from political meddling are in abeyance. The committee should make their restoration a priority.