Diversity initiatives

Listen

We recognise and value diversity as our strength and we promote a culture of inclusion to enhance our work performance and the wellbeing of our employees.

This work is led by our Diversity Lead Champion, who provides strategic advice and leadership to achieve impactful and sustainable cultural change. Our Diversity Lead Champion also chairs our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, and reports progress on work stream activities to the Executive Leadership Team.

We hold memberships with Diversity Council Australia, the Australian Disability Network, Pride in Diversity and are proud to be named on the Diversity Council Australia (DCA)'s annual list of Inclusive Employers for 2024-2025.

We also have a dedicated Diversity Equity and Inclusion Team within People Branch who provide advice and support to managers and staff on all matters of diversity, equity and inclusion.

Entry level programs

We have a range of Entry Level Programs designed specifically for people from diverse backgrounds. Our internships and programs provide on-the-job training to support a smooth transition into the workforce, including the following:

Indigenous Australian Government Development Program
Indigenous Apprenticeships Program
Indigenous Graduate Pathway Program
Australian Disability Network Internship Program

For more information about these programs and other opportunities see our Entry Level Programs page.

Diversity champions and staff networks

We have 5 senior executive Diversity Champions and staff-led networks which provide support, education, and advocacy of diversity and inclusion, within our organisation. Our Diversity Champions lead and monitor progress and report to the Diversity and Inclusion Committee.

Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Network (CALD)

The CALD Network supports, educates, celebrates and advocates for racial, religious, cultural and linguistic diversity and inclusion for all employees and their multi-layered identities. It welcomes all staff to join and learn more about the multicultural Australia we serve, and to work together to remove workplace barriers including racism and other forms of discrimination.

Disability, Neurodiversity and Allies (DNA) Network

The DNA Network supports staff with disability, staff who are neurodivergent, and those with caring roles to fully participate in the workplace and experience rich, rewarding careers, and feel safe and respected. It is dedicated to awareness, advocacy, and understanding within the workplace, ensuring equal opportunities and accessibility for all employees.

First Nations Network (FNN)

The FNN provides a culturally safe and inclusive space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to come together, yarn, connect and share cultural knowledge, stories and experiences. Members come from many nations across Country, reflecting strong cultures and deep connections to the land, waters, skies, community, language and lore.

Gender Equality Network (GEN)

The GEN is open to all staff in our department who have a passion for achieving gender equality. It raises awareness and advocate for change on gender equality related issues, provide opportunities to participate in professional development, networking and mentoring.

Pride and Allies Network (PAN)

The PAN promotes Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) inclusion through advocacy, recognition of significant events, creating safe spaces and building a sense of community among staff.

Mental Health champion

Mental Health and Wellbeing (MHWB) Network

The MHWB Network works to make mental health and wellbeing a fundamental part of how we work, connect and succeed together. The network raises awareness, builds understanding, and shares resources through events and communication. It also provides opportunities for staff to connect and support one another, while advocating for a workplace culture where mental health is prioritised and all employees feel valued.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee sustains a diverse and inclusive workplace by overseeing the implementation of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Strategy 2025–2028. Meeting quarterly, the committee brings together SES champions, staff representatives, network co-chairs and People Branch representatives.

Together, they work to remove barriers so staff and the department can reach their full potential, achieve meaningful and sustainable cultural change, and ensure diversity is valued, respected, and promoted. The committee also guides and monitors progress through the 2025–26 DEI Roadmap, which sets out the specific actions to be delivered each year and diversity targets. The roadmap provides a clear pathway from planning to implementation and review, ensuring that initiatives are tracked, milestones are met, and outcomes are reported openly. This process strengthens accountability, fosters inclusive practices, and embeds wellbeing and performance enhancements across our department.

Diversity programs and initiatives

Jawun Secondment Program

We offer eligible staff the opportunity to undertake secondments to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led organisations through the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) Jawun Secondment Program. You will have the opportunity to make a direct contribution to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and increase our cultural capability.

Sir Roland Wilson and Pat Turner Scholarship Program

We regularly participates in the Sir Roland Wilson Phd Scholarship and the Pat Turner Scholarship offering staff an opportunity to nominate to be a part of this annual intake. As part of the Sir Roland Scholarship, Scholars complete a PhD on a topic of national significance at the Australian National University (ANU), and build connections between ANU and the Australian Public Service (APS). Pat Turner scholars complete any level of postgraduate study, from Graduate Certificate to PhD, at either the ANU or Charles Darwin University. In addition to their studies, scholars for both programs have access to exclusive professional development and networking opportunities and are connected with an APS Mentor.

Our Stories on Country Agreement

The department's Our Stories on Country Agreement was launched on 21 August 2024 and embodies the shared commitment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees, our leadership team and staff to create a workplace which truly values the culture, knowledge and insight of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

At the heart of the agreement is a set of aspirations for our department, developed, articulated and agreed by the members of the First Nations Network.

Workplace adjustment

We support reasonable adjustment requests to support staff in performing the requirements of their job safely or to remove barriers and enable full participate in our recruitment processes.

Mentoring

We include mentoring as part of a number of our Entry Level Programs. We match staff together to provide support, foster professional and personal development, and opportunities to learn about more about the department, the Australian Public Service, and potential career pathways.