Supporting early career APS staff to step forward with confidence and cultural strength.

IS THIS COURSE RIGHT FOR YOU?

This course is for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees in APS 2–3 (or equivalent) who are new to the public sector, including those who have joined through traineeships, cadetships or apprenticeships.

It’s ideal if you want to better understand APS recruitment, build confidence with applications and interviews, and learn how to share your skills, experiences and cultural strengths in a way that feels authentic and grounded.

COURSE OVERVIEW

Starting a career in the APS can feel exciting and unfamiliar at the same time. This course helps early-career public sector staff navigate recruitment with confidence.

Participants learn how the system works, how to highlight skills, experiences and cultural contributions, and how to tell genuine stories in interviews. Focusing on building careers from a place of strength, the course offers tools and knowledge to grow in your current role or explore new opportunities.

KEY LEARNINGS

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand APS application processes and confidently prepare CVs, pitch statements and selection criteria.
• Identify strengths and transferable skills – including cultural, community and life experience – to clearly demonstrate value.
• Interpret job ads, apply Work Level Standards, and use the STAR method to deliver compelling, authentic interview responses.

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees in APS 2–3 or equivalent roles
• New to the public sector, including those who have entered through traineeships, cadetships or apprenticeships
• Early-career staff who want practical, culturally safe support to navigate applications, interviews and next steps in their APS career.

If you would like to learn more about this course or other IPAA Advantage offerings, please contact the IPAA ACT team on
02 6154 9800 or capability@act.ipaa.org.au.