The Public Service Amendment Bill seeks to refocus New Zealand’s public service on its core role, supporting the elected government to develop and implement policy, while strengthening accountability and reinforcing a merit-based approach to recruitment and performance. The changes aim to make the public service more effective, directive, and aligned with delivering outcomes for taxpayers.
The Taxpayers’ Union supported key provisions that clarify the purpose of the public service, establish mandatory integrity standards, and remove requirements to consider diversity, equity, and inclusion in appointments and remuneration. We emphasised that recruitment and advancement should be based on merit alone, and highlighted the need to ensure resources are focused on frontline services rather than administrative overhead.
High-performing public service depends on capability, accountability, and public trust. Prioritising merit and clear objectives improves efficiency, strengthens confidence in government institutions, and ensures taxpayer resources are directed toward delivering real results for New Zealanders.
