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Innovation in a public sector context has been defined as the ‘creation and implementation of new processes, products, services and methods of delivery which result in significant improvements in the efficiency, effectiveness or quality of outcomes'. In short, innovation is the application of new ideas to produce better outcomes.

Innovation, although not always celebrated, has been central to many initiatives undertaken by Australian government public sector entities. Indeed, as illustrated in the case studies selected for this Better Practice Guide (Guide), the public sector can draw on many examples where innovative approaches have been used to identify new ideas and put them into practice. While the Australian government public sector has much to be proud of, we will need to build on this experience and drive new directions if the changing needs and expectations of government and the community are to be met. In an environment that presents both challenges and opportunities, the Prime Minister has set high aspirations for the public sector in this regard.

The purpose of this Guide is to provide a framework for understanding the processes that underpin innovation in the public sector and to provide practical insights and a resource for practitioners. In this way the Guide isdesigned to further encourage and facilitate an innovative culture in the Australian Public Service (APS) and thepublic sector more generally.

Supplements to this Better Practice Guide

• A Review of the Literature
• Detailed Case Study Material From Agencies

Download Innovation in the Public Sector
Download Innovation in the Public Sector