APS Values

APS employees are entrusted with delivering outcomes for the Government and the Australian community. This responsibility requires a high standard of professional behaviour, underpinned by the APS Values.

The APS Values articulate the Parliament of Australia's expectations of public servants in relation to performance, conduct and professional standards. They reflect the principles of good public administration and form a central part of the ethical framework guiding APS employees in their work.

The APS Values are established in section 10 of the Public Service Act 1999 and further supported by Part 2 of the Australian Public Service Commissioner's Directions 2022. Together, they help ensure that APS employees act in ways that maintain trust, integrity and confidence in the public service.

Understanding and applying the APS Values supports employees to meet their obligations under the Act and uphold the reputation of the APS in all aspects of their work.

What are the benefits?

• Clarify the behavioural standards expected of all APS employees.
• Strengthen understanding of the principles that underpin ethical and effective public administration.
• Support consistent, values-aligned decision-making in complex or sensitive situations.
• Reinforce public trust through the application of the APS Values in everyday work.

What this resource covers

• Impartial: The APS is apolitical and provides advice that is frank, honest, timely and based on the best available evidence.
• Committed to service: The APS is professional, objective, innovative and efficient, and works collaboratively to achieve the best results for the Australian community and the Government.
• Accountable: The APS is open and accountable to the Australian community under the law and within the framework of ministerial responsibility.
• Respectful: The APS respects all people, including their rights and heritage.
• Ethical: The APS demonstrates leadership, is trustworthy, and acts with integrity in all that it does.
• Stewardship: The APS builds capability and institutional knowledge, supporting the public interest now and into the future by understanding the long-term impacts of its actions.

Suitable for

• All staff.