An effective, politically neutral public service is essential to democratic governance, the rule of law and the prevention of state capture. While constitutions rarely regulate the public service in detail, many establish its core principles, foundations and oversight mechanisms.

This primer examines how constitutions can support a professional, inclusive and accountable public service. Drawing on comparative constitutional practice, with particular attention to public service commissions and examples from Commonwealth and other systems, it offers guidance for constitution-makers considering how best to regulate the public administration.