Step into the public sector of 2076

First Nations people are shaping decisions, leading change and thriving across the Australian public sector.

Culture and community are embedded in the way organisations operate. First Nations voices carry influence at every level. Workplaces are culturally safe, equitable and empowering.

But how did we get here?

Inspired by the 2026 NAIDOC Week theme, 50 Years of Deadly, this future-focused hackathon invites you to imagine what the public sector could look like 50 years from now, then work backwards to identify what needs to happen today to make that future possible.

The challenge

What bold decisions were made between 2026 and 2076?

What systems were transformed? How did leadership change? And how were First Nations culture, knowledge and community placed at the centre of public sector decision-making?

Through facilitated activities and collaborative discussion, participants will explore:

• the policies, practices and leadership changes that enabled meaningful progress
• how cultural safety, equity and empowerment were embedded across public sector workplaces
• how First Nations voices, knowledge and leadership shaped decisions
• the practical actions public sector organisations can begin taking now

Together, participants will share ideas, challenge assumptions and help build a collective vision for a public sector in which First Nations people are empowered, influential and thriving.

Why participate?

This is your opportunity to engage with the 50 Years of Deadly theme in a practical and future-focused way.

You will connect with others who are passionate about creating change, explore new approaches to leadership and systemic reform, and contribute ideas that honour the achievements of the past 50 years while helping shape the next 50.

Register

This free virtual event is open to all IPAA ACT members, making it easy to participate from anywhere.

Whether you work in policy, leadership, service delivery, people and culture, innovation or another area of the public sector, your experience and perspective can help shape the conversation.

Register now and help map the path to a stronger public sector in 2076.