By PSC Media

The Public Services Commission (PSC) is sending out this important update in its jurisdiction regarding personnel matters for long-term casuals and probationary officers employed in the National Public Service.
These changes arise from the Supreme Court decision in the case of Forae v Kereme & Ors (2024) SC2583, alongside a reassessment of legal provisions.
They include:
• Long-Term Casual Employees: Employees whose casual employment commenced prior to the Fourth Edition of the General Orders in 2012, can now lodge complaints as permanent officers of the public service, in line with the Supreme Court ruling. As per General Order 7.2, departments are required to reclassify such employees, but many failed to do so. The decision retroactively recognizes their rights starting from 1st January, 2012.

Relevant Legal Provisions:

• Supreme Court judgement in Forae v Kereme & Ors (2024) SC2583: Grants retroactive recognition.
• Section 2 of the Public Services (Management) Act 1995: Defines “officer” and distinguishes casual employees from permanent officers.

• Probationary Officers: Probationary officers who meet the qualifications set out in Section 35 of the Public Services (Management) Act 1995, are now confirmed as “officers” eligible to lodge complaints on personnel matters to PSC. Previously, probationary officers were deemed ineligible, but this updated interpretation ensures inclusion.

Relevant Legal Provisions:

• Section 35 of the Public Services (Management) Act 1995: Details the qualifications required to be appointed as an “officer”.
• General Order 4.17: Highlights partly in terms and conditions between probationary and permanent officers.
  What This Means: The PSC is reaffirming its commitment to justice and inclusivity by ensuring that all public servants, whether long-term casual employees or probationary officers, can now apply for a review of a personnel matter if they are aggrieved by a decision taken against them by their Departmental Head. This update, reinforces PSC’s dedication to aligning practices with legal standards and providing equitable treatment for all public servants.

By PSC Media

The Public Services Commission (PSC) is proud to acknowledge nine (9) of its Administrative Assistants who received Certificates of Appreciation for their active participation in the International Administrative Professional Summit, hosted by the Papua New Guinea All Admin Professionals (PNGAAP) on Thursday, 17th April 2025, at Dynasty Seafood Restaurant, in Port Moresby.
This significant event brought together administrative professionals from a broad range of backgrounds, including government departments, state agencies, and the private sector, to share experiences, build professional networks, and highlight the evolving role of administrative staff in modern workplaces.
The summit was held under the theme ‘Gender Bender’, with key topics focusing on:
• Recognition of professional skills through embracing diversity, inclusivity, and equality;
• Celebrating the character and contributions of administrative professionals;
• Understanding challenges related to traditional gender roles and workplace expectations;
• Encouraging continued professionalism and excellence within the field.
Ms. Noho Daera, Acting Personnel Assistant to the Office of the Secretary, PSC Secretariat, spoke on behalf of the team, sharing her reflections on the summit’s impact saying it is important to create a network between administrative professionals in the public sector.
“This enables us to work in unison and also helps us to carry out our duties and responsibilities with the knowledge and skills attained from being part of this Association. Therefore, moving forward, it is recommended for our participation in future training and conferences organized by the PNGAAP”, said Ms. Daera.
The PNGAAP continues to play a vital role in promoting the professional and social welfare of administrative personnel across PNG, and is committed to fostering a culture of learning, excellence, and empowerment for office professionals.
This year, the PSC proudly registered ten (10) Administrative Assistants and one (1) Receptionist as official members of the PNGAAP. This affiliation not only opens doors to further professional development, but also aligns with the Commission’s commitment to capacity building and career advancement.
The officers who attended the summit expressed their sincere gratitude to the PSC, for its ongoing support and for recognizing the value of such opportunities in enhancing their skills, confidence, and contribution to the public service.