The Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) has launched a strategy to improve the professionalism of the Australian Public Service (APS) Human Resources workforce.
Public Service Commissioner, Peter Woolcott said the strategy would provide a systematic service-wide approach to lifting strategic Human Resources (HR) capability and attracting and retaining the best strategic HR talent available.
He said several reviews of the APS in recent years had highlighted capability gaps across a number of professions, including in strategic HR management.
“This has led to the development of a formal professions model, with the aim of lifting in-house skills and expertise and providing rewarding Public Service careers,” Mr Woolcott said.
“The APS HR Professional Stream Strategy has been developed through consultation with an established reference group comprising Deputy Secretaries representing a range of APS Agencies.”
He said the strategy included initiatives that would help identify core, long-term capability needs, standards and career pathways to support HR professionals in the APS.
“These initiatives include the creation of an HR Professional Network, the implementation of an HR mobility program, the development of a workforce strategy for HR professionals, and streamlining the recruitment of HR professionals, including graduates,” Mr Woolcott said.
He also announced the appointment of Jacqui Curtis (pictured) as the APS HR Head of Profession. She is the Chief Operating Officer at the Australian Taxation Office, leading Enterprise Strategy and Corporate Operations.
Mr Woolcott said the role would be rotated every two years between relevant senior executives to share ownership across APS Agencies and leverage diversity of thinking over time.
The 10-page strategy can be accessed at this PS News link.
