APS Academy Campuses
The APSC is partnering with universities in regional areas to deliver APS entry-level digital and data programs into their communities.
APS Academy Campuses are part of an Australian Government initiative to build digital and data skills across the public service.
This pilot program creates new pathways for regional Australians, whether you're studying or changing careers, to gain experience in data and digital roles in the Australian Public Service (APS), without needing to move away from your community.
The program is delivered by the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) in partnership with:
- The University of Newcastle (Newcastle, NSW)
- James Cook University (Townsville, QLD)
Supporting regional talent in data and digital
The APS is experiencing a growing shortage of digital, data and ICT professionals.
The 2023–24 State of the Service Report found that:
- 81% of APS agencies face critical shortages in digital and ICT skills
- 80% reported similar shortages in data roles
These figures continue to rise year-on-year. At the same time, most APS roles in these fields are in Canberra with most digital and data experts living outside Canberra, where fewer APS roles are available.
APS Academy Campuses help bridge this gap by building regional capability and accessing the untapped talent that exists outside major cities.
Learning, working and building your career
APS Academy Campuses are dedicated workspaces located at the University of Newcastle and James Cook University. They provide a place for entry-level participants (mainly in data and digital) to work while being employed remotely by an APS agency.
Campuses support participants to progress through the Data and Digital Programs, which include technical skilling and APS craft modules. Data and Digital Cadets continue their studies while gaining paid APS experience in a flexible role designed to grow with them. They will work part time during their studies and move into a full-time APS role once they graduate.
Other entry level program participants may also be located at the APS Academy Campuses. All program participants will be provided with on-site APS support from the Campus Supervisor.
How to apply
The Career Pathways Data and Digital Cadet Programs, at APS Academy Campuses, are open to university students studying towards a qualification focussing entirely or partially on data or digital. The program is also available to applicants placed outside of campus locations.
Extra support to help you succeed
Agencies that recruit regionally report better success when new staff feel supported and connected. APS Academy Campuses provide extra help to make your early career experience in the APS as smooth and rewarding as possible.
This includes:
- A dedicated Campus Supervisor for on-site support and pastoral care for all Campus entry level staff.
- Tailored learning programs that build data and digital skills for real APS environments.
- Training in professional skills like communication, collaboration and problem solving relevant to all working environments.
- Membership to the Data Profession and Digital Profession communities as a Government employee.
- Memberships to industry bodies in data and digital fields.
- Campus projects that bring cadets together to develop and share solutions.
- Experienced on-site APS staff who work alongside cadets.
Information for agencies
Agencies can place data and digital candidates from APSC managed merit pools at APS Academy Campuses.
To learn more about this process, email the team at apsacademycampus@apsc.gov.au
Learn more
Visit the Career Pathways website for more information and register your interest to get updates when new opportunities open.