The sacked head of the federal communications department says he wasn't given any opportunity to provide advice on a major government shakeup.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Thursday announced details of a public service overhaul, which ended Mike Mrdak's role as secretary of the Department of Communications and the Arts and 32-year career in the public service.
The changes cut the number of departments from 18 to 14.
Mr Mrdak's department is to be incorporated from February into a newly established Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities, Regional Development and Communications.
"I was told of the government's decision to abolish the department late yesterday afternoon," Mr Mrdak said in the memo.
"We were not permitted any opportunity to provide advice on the machinery of government changes, nor were our views ever sought on any proposal to abolish the department or to changes to our structure and operations."
He said he would work with staff to make the transition as seamless as possible.
"I will keep everyone regularly advised of what is proposed and what is happening.
"I will do my best with our SES (executive) team to ensure that there is as much certainty as possible for all of you, and our agencies, and a continuity of services for the community we serve."
Mr Mrdak said Australia had the best public service in the world.
"Long may it continue to be so."
Australian Associated Press
