Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee, , 2:16:33 to 2:21:43
The Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs provides an opening statement covering staff census results, workplace culture improvements, and resilience after a difficult year.
Topics: Workplace culture, Public service staffing
Speakers: Stephanie Foster, Senator Jana Stewart, Hon Murray Watt
I will resume us from the morning tea break. I would now welcome the Senator, the Honorable Murray Watt, representing the Minister for Home Affairs. I also call officers from the Department of Home Affairs, including Australian Border Force and Illicit Tobacco and E Cigarette Commissioner for Cross Portfolio Corporate and General Matters. Minister, do you have an opening statement?
I do not, other than to say there is nowhere on Earth I would rather be.
Met more than 90% of our targets and delivered a financial result for 25, 26 that saw a small operating deficit of 0.4 of 1% of our total budget. I've spoken publicly about the combined impact of these factors on our staff and how that was reflected through our census results this year. Many of our indices declined from the high levels recorded in 2025. Which was disappointing but not surprising in the context of this very tough year. Importantly, the longer term trajectory since 2023 indicates that we may on track to improve. Is it anyone as an organization? While some indicators fell slightly over that period, important measures showed strong growth. The portion of employees who would recommend home affairs as a good place to work increased from 57% in 23 to 65 per cent in 26. Likewise, the proportion who felt inspired to identify new better ways of working increase from 41 to 50 per cent. Overall, the majority of our census results have improved over the past three years. That said, we take the 2026 results seriously. Our staff have been clear about where we need to focus and we're listening. The past year has tested us. It has also demonstrated the strength, resilience and capability of our people. I want to thank all our staff for what they have achieved together. Finally, as we did in May, we've ensured that all necessary witnesses are available in outcome one to respond to questions relating to Bondi and the Royal Commission. Thank you.
Thank you, Secretary. We'll protect proceed to questions and begin with Senator Duniam.