Mastercraft Series – Royal Commissions, Public Inquiries and Reviews
ABOUT THIS EVENT
On 11th May 2023, IPAA Queensland hosted the first in our new Mastercraft Series.
The historic Fitzgerald Inquiry delivered an agenda that transformed integrity in public governance in Queensland.
Fast forward three decades and in Queensland recently we have had the Coaldrake Review on culture and accountability, the Commission of Inquiry into the Crime and Corruption Commission, the Commission of Inquiry into the Queensland Police Service, and the Commission of Inquiry into Forensic DNA Testing.
But what are Royal Commissions and Public Inquiries? Do they all have the potential to spur transformative change? Why do they exist? What is their public policy role? And – why should public servants and the wider public care about them?
Developing a sound grasp of the answer to these questions is fundamental craft knowledge for public service professionals.
Commissions of Inquiry and Royal Commissions are statutory based with coercive powers appointed to forensically investigate and make public findings and recommendations about individuals, organisations and matters of public concern – usually regarding a specific incident or series of allegations.
Public inquiries are arising with regularity across both state and Commonwealth government jurisdictions. With several high-profile inquiries completed this year and currently underway. They often involve contentious and complex issues and attract significant media attention. They use a variety of means to garner evidence and their recommendations have had major impacts on businesses, governments, departments entire industries and key areas of policy like education, finance, and the environment.
To find out more, read our blogs on the event “Royal Commissions and Public Inquiries: Insights from Dr Scott Prasser – IPAA“; “Inaugural Mastercraft Seminar – Royal Commissions, Public Inquiries & Reviews – IPAA”
The full event recording is available to watch.
ABOUT OUR SPEAKER
Dr Prasser is a public policy consultant and commentator. He is the editor of the recently released book New Directions in Royal Commissions and Public Inquiries: Do we need them? and provides regular analysis in print, radio and television media. He has held senior policy and advisory roles in state and commonwealth public services, and served as ministerial advisor to three federal Cabinet Ministers. He holds undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications from the University of Queensland and Griffith University. Dr Prasser is also a IPAA Queensland Councilor.
ABOUT OUR MASTERCRAFT SERIES
IPAA Queensland’s Mastercraft Series is the latest in our original and unique program of initiatives aimed at supporting and developing the public sector in Queensland.
These events are designed to deliver the latest information and thinking on core areas of knowledge for all public service professionals. The aim is to promote evidence-based and thoughtful practice in public policy and public management, and to develop essential knowledge and skills in the craft of public administration (particularly amongst young professionals and those new to public service).
Delivered in an engaging and sharp format, including relevant and interesting case examples and lots of opportunity for Q&A, the Mastercraft Series will become a sort-after addition to our annual program.
The series are offered free to IPAA Queensland individual members and organisational member employees in alignment with our mission to build the capability, professionalism and integrity of public service in Queensland.