Hon Dr Jonathan Coleman
Minister of State Services
28 May 2014
Core public service numbers update
State Services Minister Jonathan Coleman says the latest statistics on core government administration show a reduction
to 65 positions below the cap.
“The Government is delivering better public services at the same time as shifting resources from administration to
frontline services,” says Dr Coleman.
“Numbers in the core public service drastically escalated under the previous Labour Government. The National-led
Government introduced a cap on core government administration in 2009, and we lowered it again in 2012. We continue to
remain below the cap of 36,475 full-time equivalent positions.
“As at 31 December 2013, there were 36,410 full-time equivalent positions in core government administration. This update
shows a general decrease in vacancies across agencies, despite the predicted seasonal increase at the Department of
Conservation during summer, and the Ministry of Social Development’s seasonal workforce for StudyLink.
“The cap on core government administration positions remains a useful tool, combined with a focus on departmental
baselines and the Better Public Services initiative, to deliver better public services for New Zealanders.
“The Government continues to make good progress in our 10 Better Public Services Results areas, and the Kiwis Count
survey shows satisfaction and trust in our public service remains high.”
Core government administration positions include all public service departments (excluding the Community Probation and
Psychological Service and Prison Service sections of the Department of Corrections, and the Child Youth and Family, and
Work and Income sections of the Ministry of Social Development) and five selected Crown entities: Housing NZ
Corporation, NZ Qualifications Authority, NZ Transport Agency, NZ Trade and Enterprise, and the Tertiary Education
Commission.
The capping update can be found at www.ssc.govt.nz
ENDS