Emerging Leaders Program
Registrations for Cohort 3, 2025 close 22 October
Are you an aspiring emerging leader keen to unlock your leadership potential?
This program for APS 4-5 (and equivalent) emerging First Nations leaders working in the Commonwealth and ACT public sector will connect you to a network of like-minded emerging leaders from across the public sector.
IPAA ACT supports public sector practitioners to forge a rewarding and impactful career, not just training for a single job. We are focused on the long-term career of public sector leaders across your many roles, departments and projects. Our First Nations 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. We aim to provide a brave space to build resilience and your authentic leadership brand. The program will build from the lived experience of leaders and presenters working in community, policy and implementation fields across the public sector system. Learn from those who have walked that path before you, and work with your peer group to build from those foundations, effectively navigate the cultural load, achieve outcomes and build a network to walk alongside you as your public sector career makes a difference.
Download our 2025 program here.
“Please run this course for 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.”
Who can apply?
Emerging Leaders program is open to IPAA ACT organisational members only. Check if your organisation is a member here.
Applicants should be at APS4 to APS5 level, or equivalent levels for the private sector or academia, and identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. The program is not suitable for those currently undertaking a graduate program.
Emerging Leaders Program – 2026 Update
We are redesigning the Emerging Leaders Program for 2026 to ensure it continues to meet the needs of aspiring public sector leaders. The updated program will include new content and optional self-paced training courses.
Program dates will be confirmed soon—stay tuned for updates.
