Draft Federal Policy: Department of Efficiency and Reform (DER)
Objective: The Department of Efficiency and Reform (DER) is established to optimise the functioning of the Australian Government by eliminating inefficiencies, reducing unnecessary expenditures, and streamlining operations. The DER will aim to enhance public trust in governance by ensuring taxpayer funds are used effectively and transparently.
Vision: A lean, efficient, and effective federal government that prioritises service delivery, innovation, and fiscal responsibility.
Key Goals:
Reduce Federal Spending: Achieve a 15% reduction in discretionary federal spending over the next three years.
Consolidate Federal Agencies: Reduce the number of federal agencies and statutory bodies by identifying and merging overlapping functions, aiming for a 20% reduction by 2028.
Optimise Workforce Utilisation: Streamline the federal workforce by implementing automation and redeploying employees to high-priority service areas, targeting a 10% reduction in administrative roles by 2026.
Enhance Transparency and Accountability: Implement robust performance metrics and public reporting mechanisms for all government initiatives.
Structure and Governance:
The DER will operate as an independent advisory body reporting directly to the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
It will consist of a board of directors, including experts in public administration, technology, economics, and representatives from civil society.
A temporary tenure of five years (2025-2030) to ensure focus on short-term results while establishing long-term practices.
Key Initiatives:
Audit and Analysis:
Conduct a comprehensive audit of all federal departments and agencies.
Identify areas of duplication, inefficiency, and waste.
Digital Transformation:
Accelerate the adoption of digital platforms for public services to improve access and reduce operational costs.
Implement AI-driven systems for routine administrative tasks.
Program Review:
Review all federally funded programs to assess their effectiveness and alignment with national priorities.
Phase out or restructure underperforming programs.
Regulatory Reform:
Streamline existing regulations to reduce administrative burdens on businesses and individuals.
Introduce a "one-in, two-out" policy for new regulations.
Engaging Stakeholders:
Host public consultations to gather input on proposed changes.
Establish a whistleblower mechanism for reporting government inefficiencies.
Implementation Timeline:
Year 1 (2025): Establish DER, conduct audits, and begin consultations.
Year 2 (2026): Implement initial reforms and pilot digital transformation projects.
Years 3-4 (2027-2028): Expand successful initiatives and consolidate federal agencies.
Year 5 (2029): Conduct a final evaluation and transition oversight to relevant permanent bodies.
Funding:
Initial funding for the DER will be drawn from the Federal Efficiency Fund (FEF), established by reallocating 1% of the annual federal budget.
Cost savings achieved by the DER will be reinvested in priority areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Accountability Measures:
Quarterly reports to Parliament on progress, challenges, and outcomes.
An independent review at the end of the DER’s tenure to assess its impact and provide recommendations for future efficiency initiatives.
Expected Outcomes:
Enhanced public confidence in government operations.
Tangible cost savings redirected to essential public services.
A modern, agile government better equipped to address emerging challenges.
Note: This draft policy is a starting point and would benefit from input and refinement by policymakers, stakeholders, and experts in public administration and governance.