Fabians Pamphlet 67: Reforming the public sector for a more equal society

As progressives, we need to understand these challenges, so that we can defend those elements of the current model that are essential and support the real reforms needed to modernise the public service.

This collection of essays makes an invaluable contribution to doing just that.

Senator Jenny McAllister’s piece on Public Service Excellence tackles some of the great challenges and contradictions of the public service head-on. How can institutions built on impartiality, also show empathy, and connect with citizens? Is an organisational form defined by its scale capable of being nimble and of delivering services in ways that meet the needs of diverse communities?

Reforming the public sector is perhaps the least politically sexy area of public policy, and yet it should be a topic of vital interest to all progressives.

This collection of essays is a great example of the role that the Fabians have played for generations in encouraging discussion of the issues that matter to anyone who wants to see a fairer, more equal society.