overview

The public service at the federal and state level offers a wide range of full-time and part-time work, from police to policy officers and project managers, welfare support workers to scientists and lawyers. 

Whatever your role, working in the public service is a chance to serve your community and make a difference by helping to ensure Australia is prosperous, safe and environmentally sustainable. In the past few years there has been an increase in the visibility of the public service which has highlighted its innovation and creativity in solving problems.

Deployment and user adoption of digital technologies advanced many years in a matter of weeks. As a result, tech roles from data scientist to software engineer are in high and increasing demand in the public service (see our dedicated tech in-demand section to find out more). Federal and State Governments continued investment in infrastructure and drive to improve the customer experience of Government services has also driven a demand for project management and change management roles. 

 

key facts

  • where people work

    • Variety of customer-facing and support roles, indoor and outdoor settings to suit.

  • impact of new technologies

    • Virtual engagement and delivery are increasing as more people interact with public service digitally. But physical interaction remains critical in many roles.

  • impact of net zero

    • Drive to reduce energy, emissions and waste. Public service also plays a key role in advising businesses and communities on how to become more sustainable. 

in-demand skills & qualifications for policy officer

  • tasks and duties

    • Undertaking and commissioning research
    • Data collection and analysis 
    • Advising policymakers
    • Drafting speeches and communications 
    • Public consultation
    • Monitoring communications

  • skills

    • Understanding of how Government works
    • Research and analytic skills
    • Good written and oral skills
    • Interpersonal skills

  • training and qualifications

    • A relevant degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject, e.g., Political Science, Public Administration or Law.
    • In addition, certain roles require security clearance and Employment Suitability Clearance (ESC).

in-demand skills & qualifications for change manager

  • task and duties

    • Developing plans and strategies to deliver change
    • Identifying and outlining road maps and potential problems
    • Communicating and with and winning buy-in from affected staff
    • Monitoring and assessing progress and results of transition
    • Embedding change into ‘business as usual'

  • skills

    • Organisational and planning skills
    • Understanding of the psychology of change
    • Problem-solving abilities
    • Project management expertise
    • Attention to detail
    • Motivating and inspirational
    • Communication skills

  • training and qualifications

    Change management is a process, which can be carried out by people from different backgrounds. Human resources, project management or personnel are often involved in change management. A bachelor degree in a relevant subject is desirable, but qualification from the Australian HR Institute (AHRI) is a recognised way into the profession.

    Career switch

    • People with a background in HR, project management and psychology see change management as a natural job progression.

want to connect with one of our consultants?

find our nearest office

in-demand skills & qualifications for project manager

  • tasks and duties

    • Leading project planning sessions
    • Managing large and diverse teams 
    • Meeting deadlines
    • Managing relationships with stakeholders
    • Designing, reviewing and submitting contracts
    • Participating in tender processes
    • Designing risk mitigation plans
    • Conducting detailed project review and collating reports
    • Optimising and improving processes

  • skills

    • Leadership skills
    • Stakeholder engagement
    • Risk management
    • Hybrid and agile planning methodologies.
    • IT skills

  • training and qualifications

    • A Certificate IV in Project Management Practice will prepare you to work in a procurement team. For senior roles, a Diploma of Project Management or a Bachelor of Business Management. You can also register for national accreditation at the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM).

    Career switch

    • People with a background in project management in the private sector are in-demand for similar roles within the public sector.

     

in-demand skills & qualifications for procurement officer

  • tasks and duties

    • Liaising with operational teams with internal project managers to determine product and service needs
    • Designing and overseeing contract procedures 
    • Monitoring the availability of providers of services and goods 
    • Developing strategies for procuring, storing, and distributing goods or services and maintaining stock levels
    • Nurturing relationships with suppliers 
    • Identifying and assessing potential new suppliers
    • Expense management
    • Sustainability

  • skills

    • Financial analysis skill
    • Planning
    • Negotiating skills
    • Procurement contract management
    • Supply chain and other relevant software

  • training and qualifications

    A relevant degree or postgraduate qualification in Business, Supply Chain Management or a relevant subject. Accreditation can be achieved by becoming a full member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS).

    Career switch

    • Jobs outside of supply chain and operations possess skills that are transferable into procurement careers are analysts and supply chain analysts, project managers. Also, buyers in retail and manufacturing have a good understanding of what makes good procurement.

     

in-demand skills & qualifications for talent acquisition officer

  • tasks and duties

    • Job advertising and selection. 
    • Providing information on current job vacancies in the organisation to employers and job seekers.
    • Negotiating terms and conditions of employment.
    • Developing a compelling ‘employer brand’ and reaching out to potential future recruits including engagement with schools and universities.

  • training and qualifications

    • You can work as a talent acquisition officer without formal qualifications; however, they may be useful. Vocational Education and Training (VET) and university are both common study pathways.