Emerging Leaders Program
We are running two Emerging Leaders Programs throughout 2026, with a mix of digital and in-person sessions!
Are you an emerging leader keen to unlock your leadership potential? IPAA ACT’s Emerging Leader Program for APS 4-5 (and equivalent) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders working in the Commonwealth and ACT public sector will build your leadership capacity in a culturally focused way and connect you to a network of like-minded emerging leaders from across the public sector.
Download our 2026 program snapshot and cohort calendar – here
“Please run this course forever. I’ve lived in Canberra and been in the APS for almost two years and this is the first time I’ve felt safe being open and honest about my work life.”
“As an emerging leader I found the sessions very helpful, especially when finding out what true leadership is and what we are capable of doing as an individual.”
“I found this very beneficial and really enjoyed that it was a safe space for us all to talk about our shared experiences.”
We support you in forging a rewarding and impactful career, not just training for a single job. Our Emerging Leaders Program will focus on your career journey, working across the boundaries of departments, programs and specific initiatives.
This program emphasises Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership voices and lived experiences – every facilitator and speaker is a deadly First Nations leader and advocate.
Joining us throughout the program in 2026 are Paul Callaghan, award-winning author and leader, along with the dynamic Dr Karen Demmery, CEO of Burbirra, plus a range of senior First Nations leaders in the public sector.
You will receive a free copy of one of Paul Callaghan’s books, either The Dreaming Path, which brings together Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal world views and which won a book of the year award in 2023, or Paul’s new book on leadership due to be published this year.
We aim to provide a brave space for participants to build resilience and an authentic leadership brand. You will learn from the lived experience of leaders and presenters, and work with your peer group to deepen foundations, navigate cultural load, and achieve outcomes. Build a network to walk alongside them as their public sector career makes a difference.
The program also includes creating a DISC profile for you to deepen your awareness of yourself and others using that framework.
Our 2026 program has 23 contact hours running across 2 formats, a hybrid mix of digital and in person, and fully in person. All programs include digital reflection sessions, embedding learning even further.
Our participants value the safe and inclusive environment of the program, finding the sessions instrumental in strengthening their understanding of authentic leadership. They also enjoy connecting and sharing insights with their peers. Many alumni of this program have used the skills and insights gained to progress in their public sector careers, gaining acting and permanent promotions.
The Emerging Leaders program is open to IPAA ACT organisational members. Check if your organisation is a member here.
Applicants should be at APS4 to APS5 or equivalent levels in the ACTPS, or at a similar level in the private sector or academia, and identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
Session 1 digital 28 May, 9:30 am – 1:00 pm
Session 2 digital 29 May, 9:30 am – 1:00 pm
Session 3 in-person 02 Jun, 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Session 4 in-person 02 Jun, 1:30 am – 5:00 pm
Session 5 in-person 03 Jun, 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Session 6 in-person 03 Jun, 1:30 am – 5:00 pm
Reflection 1 digital 30 Jun, 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Reflection 2 digital 28 Jul, 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Session 1 in-person 10 Nov, 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Session 2 in-person 10 Nov, 1:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Session 3 in-person 11 Nov, 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Session 4 in-person 11 Nov, 1:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Session 5 in-person 12 Nov, 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Session 6 in-person 12 Nov, 1:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Reflection 1 digital 26 Nov, 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Reflection 2 digital 09 Dec, 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Cohort 1
Dates 28-29 May & 02-03 Jun
Delivery Hybrid
Cost $3,000
