PM: Technology will shape Civil Service review

The Civil Service's ongoing functional review will consider the impact of technology as Government continues efforts to modernise the public service, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says.

During debate on the 2026-2027 National Budget, Opposition MP Hem Chand asked when the functional review of the Civil Service would be completed and whether further funding would be required.

Mr Rabuka said describing it as a "review" was not entirely accurate because the Civil Service was constantly evolving.

"Civil Service is evolving. We are bringing in technology and some of those civil servants will be replaced by machines and computers."

Earlier in the debate, Opposition MP Jone Usamate asked whether the functional review would include recommendations on right-sizing the Civil Service.

Mr Rabuka replied: "That is the objective."

He also said the review was being undertaken in response to issues raised by Opposition members and to ensure the Civil Service adapted to changing needs.

"We continue to listen to you and to try and adjust the Civil Service to the budget and to the evolution of Civil Service around the world. We are using also our institute to put that into practice and make recommendations."

Mr Rabuka said the review continued to receive technical assistance from the Australian Government.

"We continue to be assisted by the Australian Government, and they self-fund, but we continue to cooperate."

The comments came as Parliament scrutinised the $400,000 allocation for the Civil Service functional review under the 2026-2027 Budget.