94 replies to this topic

[Art Vandelay]

Prior to the decisions being made by the Renumeration Tribunal, top civil servants were earning considerably more than the Prime Minister.

I don't think that is appropriate.

I agree. They're massively overpaid for what they do.

[biologist]

I agree. They're massively overpaid for what they do.

I would agree that they are highly paid, over paid? Maybe...
The flip side is that these people are the public service, its their experience and knowledge that allows a raw politician, who has no real appreciation of how government really works to walk into a job and get things done. Every decision, even seemingly small ones, made by a politician are scrutinised and approved by public servants as the pollies really don't have a true grasp of their portfolios and I would defy anyone who tried to do their job (as a minister) to be fully across all their departments logistical, legal, operational and community obligations. Its a rare politician indeed who can actually make decisions, they basically take advice then decide what advice to go with.
Of course they will always put their own political spin on any decision made which is why many politicians are so unpopular with their own departments.....

[GregWormald]

The Remuneration Tribunal sets the pollies salaries based on the top levels of the Public Service and do not take orders from the pollies!!

Of course the pollies set the wages for the Public Service.

Independent?--I hardly think so.

BTW--remember that for all work not directly connected to an electorate, we pay for two sets of wages--the government's and the shadow government's! And we have LOTS of politicians on a per capita basis.

Greg

[Super Mustud]

There are two ways of looking at this. Is the problem really about the politicians and public servants being overpaid, or is it that some posters here are underpaid?

[biologist]

Heh heh heh, you might be surprised to hear this Super but I actually told a number of people yesterday that I was quite happy with my pay level and had no real intentions of seeking any further pay rises.

That probably sounds a bit strange if you don't understand the way my department works but it is rather unique in that professional staff like myself can actually reclassify their position and gain a pay rise but its based on your gained experience, professional qualifications, publications, roles and responsibilities etc etc. Its actually easier to apply for another job to be honest but its a means to progress your career.

So for me to not worry about seeking further upgrades of my position is rather like handing back the golden goose. But as I put it yesterday,

"I'm happy with my pay level, enjoy my work, feel like I make a difference and I'm able to keep myself free of most of the manure that tends to get spread around rather freely amongst the people just above my level".

Edited by biologist, 20 December 2011 - 11:55 AM.