Dear Mr Barlin,

MANAGING THE PARLIAMENT: THE WAY AHEAD

In June 1996, we sought your views on the possible rationalisationof the operations of, and services provided by, the five ParliamentaryDepartments.

Having considered the various options we have decided to adopta parliamentary management structure based on the two Chamberdepartments.

Our objective is to create a dynamic and responsive organisationwhich utilises wherever practicable "world best practice"in its operations, resulting in significant financial savingswhilst maintaining - and seeking to improve - service deliverystandards.

To advise us on the best means of achieving this objective wehave decided to form a Steering Committee comprising the Headsof the Parliamentary Departments.

As a member of this Committee we ask that you consider:

• the most effective and efficient methods for implementingthe new management structure;
• the legal implications and legislative process, and statutoryand financial obligations of any changes;
• the special importance of Parliament House as a building ofnational significance with the need to balance design integritywith building preservation and maintenance;
• any other matters the Committee may deem relevant;

and submit recommendations to us by 18th March, 1997.

In considering the recommendations of the Steering Committee wewill consult, as appropriate, with Members and Senators.

Yours sincerely(signed by)

cc

Mr H Evans
Mr J Templeton
Mr M Bolton

PARLIAMENTARY ADMINISTRATION

For some time now, we have been considering the future administrativearrangements for the Parliament in the context of increasing demandsfor services at at ime of budgetary restraint. After reviewingcomments from the heads of the five parliamentary departments,we have decided to implement a management structure based on thetwo chamber departments.

The functions of the present three joint departments (Departmentof the Parliamentary Reproting Staff, Department of the ParliamentaryLibrary and Joint House Department) will be merged into the Departmentof the House of Representataives and the Department of the Senate.

This two (chamber) department structure is the best way of achievinga dynamic and responsive organisation which will allow the Parliamentto make significant savings while improving the services providedto Senators, Members and committees.

We know that we will have the full and professional support ofall staff in meeting the objectives of greater efficiency andeffectiveness in the Parliament's operations.

We have asked the departmental heads to provide us by Tuesday18 March 1997 with an implementation plan for the transition tothe new structure.

The departmental heads have established a group to work out thedetailed arrangements and reprot back to them. The group willcomprise of Mr Ian Harris, Mr Peter O'Keeffe, Mr John Walsh, MrRob Johnston and Mr Fraser Bradley.

(signed by)