Who should call the shots GOCs – why have a dog when the PM barks?

Christine Holgate has been the victim of a Prime Minister seeking momentary popularity with the electorate. Organisations such as Australia Post were corporatized with an independent board so they could act like the private sector competitors whilst maintaining certain clear community service obligations. Holgate was recruited as the third CEO in three years because of ongoing political interference in a corporate organisation. Australia Post continues its rapid transformation and was working well under her leadership. Christine Holgate who saw AP not only gain the confidence of the banks provide customer services across Australia but also to compete in the parcel delivery business against the likes of DHL and Toll. Holgate’s sin what she gave $5,000 watches where she had given each a $100,000 bonus it would have escaped the media’s unusual attention. Her action had the support of the chair. The problem with passing the pub test is it is subjective and depends on the slant the media gives it. You cannot have it both ways GOC’s can either act like government departments or like private businesses. There are no halfway houses. Holgate resigned because she had no choice - perhaps the minister should go too! 

Paul Raftery