Secretary’s message

Meghan Quinn PSM
Secretary

I am pleased to release our department’s People strategy 2024–2026.

Our people are at the centre of delivering our purpose of building a better future for all Australians through enabling a productive, resilient and sustainable economy, enriched by science and technology.

Our strategy highlights our commitment to our people, culture and workplace – now and into the future. Maintaining and developing a skilled, diverse workforce in a collaborative, supportive and inclusive workplace, is at the core of this strategy. A department focused on its people delivers better outcomes for the Australian community.

Our strategy aligns with several government priorities to make the APS a model employer such as APS Reform, Closing the Gap, Commonwealth Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Workforce strategy, Disability strategy, Gender strategy and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) strategy.

We will deliver our targeted people initiatives under 3 pillars:

  1. attract, develop and retain people
  2. modern ways of working
  3. inclusive, safe and people-centred workplace.

Every one of us has a role to play in implementing this strategy, as we work collaboratively and operate inclusively to support the breadth of our work and solve challenges. In all that we do, embracing the 4 Cs will continue to shape our culture and how we work together:

  • Curious: being open to new ideas, embracing learning, and building feedback into our everyday work life. 
  • Connected: broadening and deepening our ties with each other and our stakeholders.
  • Collaborative: working together, and with others to solve challenges. 
  • Caring: supporting staff wellbeing and ensuring we thrive, both individually and as a team.

Our annual APS Employee Census results and other data will measure our success in achieving the targeted people initiatives within this strategy.

I look forward to working with you all as we continue to make this department a great place to work.