REFORM IN JAPAN FROM THE 1980S INTO THE 1990S - CHANGE AND CONTINUITY

There have been significant developments in public administration in Japan since the Administrative Reform Commission of 1981. The establishment of the commission was supported by political, business and administrative leaders. Reforms have been progressively implemented, particularly the important privatisation measures. It is suggested that the elite bureaucracy and the interrelationships in the society have been crucial factors in these developments, but concepts of national vision have also been important. There are still problems in the society and bureaucracy such as political leadership, sectionalism and the role of the bureaucracy. Contrasts are made and lessons drawn for Australia and other countries.