Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has confirmed that $440,000 has been allocated this financial year for a limited scope functional review of Fiji’s civil service.
Responding to questions from Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu in Parliament, Rabuka says the initial review will focus on key functions, capabilities, and systems within selected ministries, rather than a full government-wide overhaul.
He highlighted that a five-member committee, including three local and two international experts, will lead the review, targeting key areas like the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Civil Service, and service delivery agencies.
Rabuka says that market engagement for this project is expected by October 2025, with ongoing talks to secure co-funding from development partners for future phases.
He says that following the review, the government will consider a job evaluation exercise based on findings and Cabinet recommendations.
He adds that a broader, comprehensive review is planned as a second phase, to be carried out in collaboration with development partners.
Responding to questions from the Opposition Leader on whether the government will work with the Australian government to carry out a holistic functional review — including salary structures and public entities — Rabuka confirmed that such collaboration remains part of the broader reform agenda.
He says that the government’s planned comprehensive review of the civil service does not mean there will be a full restructuring.
However, he emphasised that while a full review is being undertaken, only targeted reforms will be implemented where they are immediately needed.
