The APS Academy Campuses initiative is reshaping how the APS attracts and retains talent – without the need to move to Canberra!
Since launching in Newcastle and Townsville in 2023, the program has employed 60 entry-level data and digital participants across 15 agencies. With 89% of participants continuing in APS roles, the model is proving its value in building and sustaining regional data and digital capability for the APS.
The program was extended through to the end of 2026 in the 2025-2026 Budget, and continues to provide agencies with a critical talent pipeline in data and digital. And importantly, the program is also a horizon one deliverable of the Data, Digital and Cyber Workforce Plan 2025-30 and supports the vision set in the Data and Digital Government Strategy.
While primarily serving the aim of improving access to regional talent in data and digital work streams, APS Academy Campuses also present a great opportunity to build a dispersed APS workforce. It also helps agencies reduce long-term reliance on contractors and consultants, in line with the Strategic Commissioning Framework.
Participating agencies also gain access to development and support for supervisors managing remote teams – strengthening leadership capability and enabling business lines to grow beyond centralised models.
Looking ahead, the APS Academy Campus program will focus on:
- growing and strengthening agency participation
- reviewing and adjusting data and digital program delivery
- building and maintaining talent pools
- fostering APS–academic partnerships.
To ensure sustainability, agencies are encouraged to commit to growing their own data and digital talent through whole-of-government models. This collaborative approach is key to addressing critical workforce gaps and building a resilient, regionally inclusive APS.
Contact apsacademycampus@apsc.gov.au or visit the APS Academy Campuses page for more information or to get involved.