I am pleased to announce a fourth call for applications under the ESS Funding Scheme administered by the Review and Reform Division (RRD). Applications are invited from agencies seeking to commence ESS implementation projects in the 2002/2003 financial year. The purpose of the ESS Funding Scheme is to assist agencies with ESS specific expenditure, including the cost of business process redesign and other essential change management work.

The provision of funding is part of a coordinated 'whole of sector' approach to implementing ESS for Personnel and Payroll transactions and agencies are encouraged to fast-track their implementations. ESS has the potential to dramatically improve the quality of HR services and is also an important technological tool to facilitate implementation of the shared corporate services strategy announced in Premier's Circular 2002-01.

The Budget Committee of Cabinet has endorsed a mandated methodology to ensure benefits realisation (refer Premier's Circular 2001-56). Funds are provided on the understanding that projects will be conducted in line with the approach outlined in the ESS guidelines issued by RRD. In particular, all agencies implementing ESS are required to undertake a rigorous process of process re-engineering and benefits realisation.

Funding is made available as a grant and detailed guidance is provided, in the ESS Project Guidelines, on preparing a funding submission. All agencies are eligible to apply for funding, however preference is given to budget sector agencies. The closing date for applications is 17 January 2003.

Copies of the ESS Project Guidelines can be obtained from the Internet at www.dpc.nsw.gov.au or by contacting Sharon McCarthy, Review and Reform Division, NSW Premier's Department on (02) 9228 5133.

Dr Col Gellatly
Director-General

Issued by: Review and Reform Division
Contact: Kathleen Caden
Email: [email protected] 
Internet: http://www.dpc.nsw.gov.au
Date: 18 December 2002
This circular has not superseded any other Circular