the APS is apolitical, performing its functions in an impartial and professional manner;

the APS is a public service in which employment decisions are based on merit;

the APS provides a workplace that is free from discrimination and recognises and utilises the diversity of the Australian community it serves;

the APS has the highest ethical standards;

the APS is openly accountable for its actions, within the framework of Ministerial responsibility to the Government, the Parliament and the Australian public;

the APS is responsive to the Government in providing frank, honest, comprehensive, accurate and timely advice and in implementing the Government’s policies and programs;

the APS delivers services fairly, effectively, impartially and courteously to the Australian public and is sensitive to the diversity of the Australian public;

the APS has leadership of the highest quality;

the APS establishes workplace relations that value communication, consultation, co‑operation and input from employees on matters that affect their workplace;

the APS provides a fair, flexible, safe and rewarding workplace;

the APS focuses on achieving results and managing performance;

the APS promotes equity in employment;

the APS provides a reasonable opportunity to all eligible members of the community to apply for APS employment;

the APS is a career‑based service to enhance the effectiveness and cohesion of Australia’s democratic system of government;

the APS provides a fair system of review of decisions taken in respect of APS employees.

an assessment is made of the relative suitability of the candidates for the duties, using a competitive selection process; and

the assessment is based on the relationship between the candidates’ work‑related qualities and the work‑related qualities genuinely required for the duties; and

the assessment focuses on the relative capacity of the candidates to achieve outcomes related to the duties; and

the assessment is the primary consideration in making the decision.