Singapore’s civil service will witness salary increases ranging from 2 to 9 percent, effective August 1, the Public Service Division (PSD) announced on February 20. The adjustments will impact approximately 22,000 civil servants across a range of roles, including those in policy, planning, and operations.
Salary Adjustments Reflect Market Conditions
The PSD stated that the salary revisions are intended to maintain competitiveness with the private sector and ensure the public service can continue to attract and retain qualified personnel. This is the first such review in four years, following adjustments of 5 to 14 percent in 2022. According to the PSD, market salary levels have increased since then.
The extent of the increase varies by scheme. Officers on the Management Executive Scheme will receive adjustments of 2 to 9 percent, with larger increases for those whose salaries lag furthest behind market benchmarks. No adjustments will be made for officers already earning competitive salaries.
Adjustments for other schemes are as follows: 4 to 9 percent for those on the Technical Support Scheme; 4 to 5 percent for those on the Management Support and Corporate Support Schemes; and 4 to 8 percent for those on the Operations Support Scheme.
Union Support and Worker Impact
The changes were made after consultation with the Amalgamated Union of Public Employees (AUPE), which represents 23,000 public sector workers. AUPE General Secretary Sanjeev Tiwari welcomed the revisions, stating they were “timely to keep pace with changes in the market.”
Mr. Tiwari also noted the revisions would particularly benefit lower- to middle-income civil servants and recognize the increasing demands placed on public sector workers. Raman Kathavarayan, a 53-year-vintage mechanical maintenance supervisor earning approximately $2,000 per month, expressed relief that the increase would facilitate with his children’s education expenses and the rising cost of living.
Looking Ahead
The PSD indicated it will continue to periodically review salaries to ensure they remain competitive. It also plans to strengthen performance-based rewards and provide more opportunities for career development within the public service. Future reviews will consider additional market factors and evolving workforce needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of these salary adjustments?
The adjustments are to keep pace with market standards and enable the public service to continue to attract and retain talent.
Which civil servants will receive salary increases?
Approximately 22,000 civil servants on the Management Executive Scheme, Technical Support Scheme, Management Support Scheme, Corporate Support Scheme, and Operations Support Scheme, and their related schemes will receive salary adjustments.
Who was consulted during this process?
The changes came after close consultation with the Amalgamated Union of Public Employees (AUPE).
How will these adjustments impact the overall quality of public service in Singapore?