$440K for a review of the civil service, Prime Minister tells
PM Rabuka says initial phase will assess people, processes and systems, with a full review to follow in phases.
Thursday 07 August 2025 | 05:00
Government allocated $440,000 for a limited scope functional review of the civil service this financial year.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka told Parliament on Wednesday that the initial phase would focus on assessing capability across people, processes and systems rather than conducting a whole of government productivity review.
“The Government of Fiji has allocated $440,000 for a limited scope functional review for this financial year,” Mr Rabuka said while responding to a question from Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu about progress on civil service structure and remuneration review.
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Mr Rabuka said a committee would be formed with diverse expertise in public sector administration comprising three nationals and two international members, with the chairperson being a senior national expert with extensive knowledge of government systems.
The ministry was targeting market engagement by October 2025, while government would continue engagement with development partners for co-funding support for remaining phases of the functional review.
The review aimed to identify overlaps, inefficiencies and capacity gaps in selected government functions and ministries, support rationalisation of mandates, roles and structures to improve service delivery, and ensure alignment with national priorities.
Mr Seruiratu had raised the question following commitments made by Government last year that would work with Australia to undertake a holistic functional review of the civil service and salary structure across public entities.
Opposition MP Premila Kumar sought clarification on whether the comprehensive review under the Vuvale Partnership with Australia would continue.
“The statement is available online – whether the second part will continue or not,” Ms Kumar said.
Mr Rabuka confirmed the holistic process would continue as part of a phased approach to meet immediate requirements and financing needs.
The review would focus on key ministries including Finance and Civil Service, examining HR and workforce planning, ICT and digitisation, policy development and coordination, and procurement and financial management.
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