Hi Tony, Not entirely true. Market testing is done with contractors of all shades - temporary, permanent, part-time, full-time, hot-desking, job-sharing, public, private, etc - but seldom in co-ops, family businesses and voluntary organisations. WRT to efficiency in the APS - this is meant to work to the taxpayers' advantage - not just the innards of some PS department. I see Equity as a populist sop - appears to fit in with the current PC view of helping the naturally disadvantaged - but it is antithetical to peak performance. Yes, I will have a good day - and the same to you, Tony. Regards, Brian. Tony said: If we were talking about full time APS roles you might have a point. But we're talking about contractors here. The efficiency works within the department(s), the equity is directed outward into the community. ****************************************************************************** The information contained in this e-mail and any attachment/s may be privileged and confidential and are intended for the recipient designated only. If you have received this e-mail in error, do not use, disseminate, distribute, or copy this e-mail and any attachment/s. However, please notify us either on telephone +612 9684 7777 or the sender via return e-mail and delete all copies of this transmission together with any attachment/s. Mitsubishi Electric Australia Pty. Ltd. has implemented anti-virus software, and whilst all care is taken, it is the recipient's responsibility to ensure that any attachments are scanned for viruses prior to use. ******************************************************************************