The Australian Public Service Commission has just released a new APS Learning and Development Strategy Action Plan, signalling the next horizon of activity to build capability across the service. The Adapt Horizon Action Plan outlines a set of practical, system-focused actions designed to help agencies reduce duplication, improve efficiencies and embed strong learning culture.
The Action Plan was developed following a detailed analysis of the current state and extensive consultation with L&D practitioners and the APS Learning Board. It reflects a shared understanding of current challenges, including inconsistent practice, variable access to development, and the need to better connect learning to performance and workplace outcomes.
Actions within the plan have been structured around the Strategy’s pillars (Culture, Governance, Capabilities and Technology) and target six critical objectives that must be addressed over the final 13 months of the Strategy. One of these objectives is the need to lift leadership and management capability, an APS-wide area for improvement. Achieving this will require both targeted initiatives for people managers and strengthened system levers to support sustained improvement. Specific actions include:
- A non-SES performance framework will be developed to set clear expectations for people managers to develop themselves and others. This will help to build consistent and improved people management outcomes
- Learning culture toolkits will support agencies to strengthen the mindset and practices that underpin good leadership, fostering curiosity and continuous improvement at team and individual levels
- An annual signal of priority leadership and management capabilities will help focus development investment and effort where it is needed most.
- A leadership community platform will be established and sustained for Executive Level officers across the APS. This initiative will provide a space for senior leaders to connect, learn from one another, and share practical insights about the challenges of leading in the APS
- Clarifying and aligning capability focus between key APS committees creating more coherent governance and system-level leadership alignment.
In addition to the leadership focused actions, the Plan also includes work to develop a capability governance landscape map including relevant Academies, Communities of Practice, Centres of Excellence, and Professions. This map will help entities align and enhance capability-building efforts across the APS, reducing duplication and targeting known gaps.
The Adapt Horizon Action Plan is not just a list of activities; it is a signal of intent. It reinforces the one-APS approach to developing capability. There is important focus on investing in leadership, aligning effort, and building capacity to achieve a high-performing, future-ready public service.
The plan is designed to be iterative, allowing for ongoing refinement and adaptation as new needs and priorities emerge. So, if you want to get involved or find out more, contact us at the learningboard@apsc.gov.au - we would love to hear from you!