About IAPSEN

The initial Indigenous APS Employees Network (IAPSEN) was established as an Australian Public Service Commission initiative taken in response to feedback from Indigenous staff. It was widely recognised that there was a need for Indigenous employees in the APS to have a means of networking in order to support one another.

The first IAPSEN was established, in April 2001, as an email network.

Today, Indigenous APS networks meet and hold events in Townsville, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Canberra. Other networks are emerging in regional Australia in response to the needs of the Indigenous workforce.

Representatives of each network meet twice a year at the Chairs Forum – either in person or via teleconference. The Forums provide a national platform for discussion of Indigenous employment issues and other related matters.

IAPSENs provide an important mechanism for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees to support each other, share information and experiences and promote cultural awareness and respect in the wider APS. Employee networks also play a major role in attracting, developing and keeping Indigenous Australians in the Australian Public Service.

Role

IAPSENs provide an important mechanism for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees to support each other, share information and experiences and promote cultural awareness and respect in the wider APS.  These are fundamental values that can profoundly affect how a person feels about their job, and influence them in their career aspirations.  Employee networks also play a major role in supporting APS recruitment, retention and development initiatives. 

Questions and answers

Who can join IAPSEN?

IAPSEN membership is open to any Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employee of a Commonwealth Government Agency.  

Is there a subscription or membership fee?

No.

Why aren’t all IAPSENs called IAPSEN?

All of the networks have their own arrangements and structures to meet the needs of their local members. All networks are IAPSEN, however some have localised titles for their networks, e.g. BIAPSEN is the local name of the IAPSEN that is run out of Brisbane.

What is the Chairs’ Forum?

The Chairs’ Forum brings together representatives of all the IAPSENs to create a national platform for the discussion of Indigenous employment matters. Representatives have the opportunity to exchange information, discuss regional issues and provide local perspectives on employment in the APS. The Chairs usually meet twice a year.

Does the Australian Public Service Commission run the IAPSEN?

No. Each IAPSEN is run by its members. The Commission’s role is to support IAPSENs by providing secretariat assistance, by assisting in event planning, and with funding for specific training events and development programs.

What if there is no IAPSEN in my area?

If you are interested in starting an IAPSEN in your area please contact the national coordinator at IAPSEN@apsc.gov.au