SES100

The SES100 initiative supported the Australian Government’s commitment to boosting First Nations employment across the Australian Public Service (APS), with a focus on increasing representation at Senior Executive Service (SES) levels to 100 roles by 2024–25. 

Representation at senior levels is critical to ensuring First Nations voices, perspectives and participation are embedded in decision-making processes. This contributes to stronger cultural capability and awareness across organisations, driven from the top down. 

Through direct contribution to Closing the Gap Priority Reform Three — transforming government institutions — the SES100 initiative focused on: 

• attracting First Nations leaders into senior executive roles 
• retaining First Nations leaders 
• supporting First Nations leaders to succeed within SES positions 
• positioning the APS as an employer of choice for First Nations peoples 

Cultural safety and participant care were embedded throughout all stages of the initiative, with participants receiving extensive support across their SES100 journey. 

Recruitment process

Recruitment rounds for SES100 Band 1 and Band 2 roles are now complete. 

Throughout the initiative, applicants were supported through a structured recruitment process, including: 

• application information sessions 
• pre-interview information sessions 
• post-interview feedback sessions 

Merit Pool 

Suitable candidates were placed in a merit pool for up to 18 months from the date of advertisement. Support included:

• a dedicated contact within the First Nations Unit 
• tailored job matching assessments 

Commencing within the SES 

Candidates who commenced SES roles through the initiative were supported with: 

• ongoing contact with the First Nations Unit 
• professional career development coaching 
• a First Nations SES buddy for those joining from outside the APS 
• yarning circles led by the Indigenous SES Network 
• opportunities for agency-nominated leadership development programs such as Yawarra 

SES100 Round 1 Outcomes

The First Nations Unit at the Australian Public Service Commission, in partnership with the National Indigenous Australians Agency, successfully delivered two Rounds of the initiative. First Nations leaders were appointed across the APS, strengthening representation at the SES level. 

Reflections from participants highlight the strong support provided throughout the initiative, from application through to transition into SES roles. Participants noted the value of coaching, tailored guidance, and connection with other First Nations leaders across the APS. 

The SES100 initiative has contributed to building a stronger, more representative and culturally capable senior leadership cohort across the APS, with lasting impacts on leadership pathways for First Nations peoples. 

For further information please contact SES100@apsc.gov.au.