The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) has today welcomed the decision to terminate Michael Pezzullo as Secretary of the Home Affairs Department.
The CPSU has consistently expressed deep concern over reports regarding Mr. Pezzullo’s conduct, labelling his position as untenable from the outset.
The reported conduct of Michael Pezzullo is incompatible with the principles of impartial and transparent service expected from public servants.
The CPSU acknowledges the importance of APS values and supports measures that ensure the integrity of public service institutions.
Quotes attributable to Melissa Donnelly, CPSU National Secretary:
“The termination of Michael Pezzullo as Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs is an appropriate and necessary step.
“Whether you’re a grad in the ATO, an APS 3 working in a Services Australia Smart Centre or the Secretary of a Department – the APS values apply, and so too should the consequences of not adhering to them.
“Far too often we have seen everyday public servants being held to a higher standard than their bosses. Both Mike Pezzullo and Kathryn Campbell demanded a level of commitment and compliance from their workforce, that they themselves could not demonstrate.
“The CPSU would like to acknowledge the tens of thousands of APS employees who, despite the failures of senior APS leadership, have continued to serve our country with integrity.
“Our union will continue to advocate for a public service that is strong, frank and fearless –one that can maintain the trust and confidence of all Australians.
