Public Sector Values

Because I spend a lot of time thinking about workplace values, I thought I'd take a quick look at what our public sector bodies prioritised in their organisations.

The graph below shows Australia's six most commonly chosen workplace values across State and Federal Government*.

The most regularly cited values are what Patrick Lencioni would describe as permission-to-play values. They 'go without saying' in the same way you'd expect airlines to value safety. But it is hardly surprising that these institutions should want to have them up front and out loud.

Each government body included Integrity, except for Queensland, but I'd describe their values as more contemporary in perspective and expression.

Other values found in more than one body were Collaboration, Courage and Leadership. Those values that were uniquely expressed included Diversity, Empower People, Human Rights, Ideas Into Action, Innovation, Professionalism, Responsiveness, Sustainability and Unleash Potential.

Any surprises? Something you expected to see? Something you didn't expect to see?