Machinery of government
The structures and allocation of responsibilities across government.
Plain English
How government is structured: which department owns what, and how responsibilities are divided.
If you’re new here
A 'machinery change' can move your whole team to another department. It happens, and usually without warning.
What they probably mean
“The org chart of the entire government is changing.”
Interpretation offered as humour, not authoritative guidance.
Bureaucracy level
How much government-speak this phrase carries. Playful indicator, not a judgement of anyone using it.
Related terms
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Important
GC Simplified is an independent tool, not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government of Canada, and it does not provide official advice. Plain language is an interpretation, and interpretations can be wrong. Always verify against the source and your organization’s own guidance before acting.