As you are aware, the NSW Government is committed to public sector reform and improving the efficiency and effectiveness with which services are delivered to the community. The Council on the Cost of Government has played a key role since 1995 in pursuing these outcomes.

To enable its work to continue, I have approved an extension of the life of the Council for a period of two years from 1 May 1999. The Council retains its former roles and functions.

The Council's current activities include:

• reviews of programs;
• the development of indicators of service efforts and accomplishments (SEAs) in collaboration with agencies, and participation in the development of agency performance agreements;
• monitoring implementation of service competition and reforms in corporate services; and
• promoting systemic improvements in financial management and other selected areas.

I ask that you collaborate closely with the Council in pursuing improvements in the above or other areas where the Council has an active role or where it is an appropriate source of advice. Please ensure that agencies respond co-operatively and promptly to requests by the Council for information relevant to its activities.

Bob Carr
Premier