By the APS Data Profession team
When people think about building data capability, they often think about analysts, data scientists and technical specialists. Creating a truly data-driven organisation however requires something just as important: leaders who understand how to use data to make better decisions.
That’s why the APS Data Profession is investing in leadership capability as a cornerstone of its vision for the future. As data becomes increasingly critical to policy development, service delivery and organisational performance, senior leaders are being equipped with the skills and confidence to lead in a data-rich environment.
The recently released 2030 APS Data Profession Strategy highlights the vital role leaders play in shaping organisational culture and driving the effective use of data across government. While technical expertise remains essential, the strategy recognises that meaningful change happens when leaders champion evidence-based decision-making, support strong governance and create workplaces where data is valued as a strategic asset.
One of the APS Data Profession’s key initiatives in this space is the Data for SES Leaders program. Originally launched in 2021 as the SES Data Leadership Program, the course has already supported more than 200 Senior Executive Service (SES) officers across the Australian Public Service. Following strong participant feedback and in response to a rapidly changing data landscape, the program was refreshed in partnership with the Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) at UNSW and relaunched in 2026.
The updated program is designed specifically for senior executives who may not work in technical data roles, but who make decisions that increasingly rely on data and evidence. Rather than focusing on technical concepts, the program helps leaders understand how to use data effectively, ask the right questions and make informed decisions with confidence.
Participants explore topics including data-driven decision-making, emerging opportunities in data and analytics, privacy and governance, data quality, storytelling with data and strategies for building capability within their organisations.
Just as importantly, the program focuses on leadership behaviours. Participants are encouraged to model data-informed decision-making, support organisation-wide data initiatives and work closely with Chief Data Officers and other capability leaders. This emphasis reflects a growing recognition that building data capability is not solely the responsibility of specialists; it requires active leadership from the top.
Since its relaunch, the program has attracted participants from agencies across the APS, including Defence, Services Australia, Finance, Health and Home Affairs. More than 50 SES officers have participated in cohorts delivered or commenced during 2026, with the APS Data Profession planning to continue offering the program quarterly. Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
Participants reported increased confidence in leading data-related activities, stronger understanding of data governance and quality issues, and greater awareness of both the opportunities and limitations of data. Many highlighted the value of learning alongside peers from other agencies, sharing challenges and exchanging practical insights from across government.
This cross-agency learning is a key feature of the APS Data Profession’s broader approach to capability building. The profession continues to foster communities of practice, professional networks and collaborative learning opportunities that enable public servants to learn from one another and strengthen data capability across organisational boundaries.
The focus on leadership comes at an important time. Demand for data skills continues to grow across the APS, while advances in analytics and artificial intelligence are reshaping how government operates. At the same time, expectations around data stewardship, ethics, transparency and accountability have never been higher.
Meeting these challenges requires leaders who understand both the opportunities data presents and the responsibilities that come with its use.
By investing in programs such as Data for SES Leaders, the APS Data Profession is helping build a workforce where leaders can confidently champion evidence-based decision-making and create environments where data is used effectively and responsibly.
Strong data capability starts with strong leadership. By developing data-confident leaders today, the APS is laying the foundation for better decisions, stronger public services and improved outcomes for Australians in the years ahead.