Almost 1/3 of public servants self-censor on misconduct

10 July 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Almost 1/3 of public servants self-censor on misconduct

Almost one in three (30%) public servants do not agree they are ‘safe to speak up about wrongdoing or inappropriate behaviour in the workplace’, according to the recent Public Service Census. Self-censorship like this, at times based on fear of reprisals, is an ominous chord to sound from the heart of our public service, says Jonathan Ayling, Chief Executive of the Free Speech Union.

"The public service plays an important role in serving our society and democracy, yet when 30% of public servants fear speaking up and challenging wrongdoing or inappropriate behaviour, we must question what sort of culture prevails. When else are public servants silent when they should speak?

“The Public Service Commissioner, Sir Brian Roche, claims ‘good leadership isn’t necessarily about deep, technical knowledge. It’s the ability to get the confidence and trust of others.’ This is impossible in contexts where individuals self-censor in fear.  

“Free speech is not simply a vague, abstract right that allows individuals to speak without fear of the government. More importantly, it is the belief that every individual’s voice matters and that they have a contribution to make, not least of all in the face of potential wrongdoing. Injustice and abuse thrive in silence.

“The Free Speech Union looks forward to reviewing the action plans that the Commissioner has required as a result of this survey, and the steps the Chief Executives will take to address self-censorship among public servants.”