Before the pandemic struck, human resources practices in many public sector organisations were in need of change and modernisation. In some cases, catalysts like the bushfires or other factors inspired the change, but COVID-19 has really forced organisations to update and innovate their HR practices.
This paper explores the innovative HR practices that three Australian public sector institutions across two states implemented before and during the pandemic. It also looks at how these changes can become permanently embedded.
Key Takeouts:
- The pandemic has forced public sector organisations to change
- The summer bushfires and the pandemic were the main catalysts for change
- Working collaboratively in innovative ways can make a big difference
- Flexibility and job sharing became necessary and re-imagined as a result of COVID-19
- Looking after the well-being of the workforce is critical during a crisis
- The pandemic created challenges but also provides hope for the future
