Careers

Introducing Andy from our Risk and Insurance Policy team – amateur actor turned policy enthusiast.

Andy started their career in banking and found the transition to the APS expanded their understanding of risk management. “Working within a central agency requires complex analysis of risks in rapidly changing contexts. It’s a collective effort. We influence the operations of other government entities and build risk capability.” 

Andy enjoys the social and cultural aspects of Finance. They’ve found a welcoming environment and dived into the multitude of activities on offer – from paddling for glory in the department’s dragon boat team, sweating through the Movember fun run, and cheering on the Finance soccer team at the annual match against Treasury.

“There are always events to look forward to and ways for a newcomer to feel welcome. That’s important to me as the Social Club Vice President for 2025.” 

Introducing Catherine, our Chief People Officer (CPO). She has spent 20 years developing her expertise in people management, organisational strategy and workplace culture.

“I have worked in multiple departments of various sizes, across several portfolios. Now here at Finance, the focus of our HR branch is to deliver good practice HR – to shape policies, resolve complex challenges and support managers and employees through recruitment, workforce planning, and learning and development. I am passionate about sustainable transformation that supports, teaches and enriches the experience of our employees.”

Outside her CPO role, Catherine is a mother to 3 children and volunteers in the community. “Finance really encourages employees to bring their whole selves to work and has enabled me to create space and give my all in each role I play in life.”

Introducing Logan from our Entry Level Programs team in HR.

“The Entry Level Programs team helps bring the next generation into the Australian Public Service and provides them with the skills and tools needed to thrive.

"I help each of our Program Managers. It’s a dynamic role and a typical day can range from invoicing to data and administration work, to in-person events and stakeholder management.

“What I love the most about Finance is the culture. From the moment I walked in, I have felt care, respect and kindness from each employee. The health and wellbeing of each staff member is a key consideration, with flexible arrangements and meaningful work ensuring that the work is productive and rewarding.”

Introducing Darlene, a Digital Cadet in our Web Services team within the Communications Branch. She manages website content for internal and external stakeholders.

Darlene enjoys Finance’s supportive and nurturing environment. “My colleagues are kind, always willing to teach, and eager to help others grow. I am grateful to work in a place that aligns with my professional interests and offers a community that encourages and supports personal and professional development. This makes every day an exciting and rewarding experience.”

Introducing Zac, Assistant Director, Automation, AI & Quality Assurance here at Finance.

“As the AI Lead for Finance, I steer through the fast-moving world of AI technology, managing its adoption within our department. My role extends to supporting the AI Governance Committee, which is at the helm of adopting, utilising and governing AI in line with government policies.”

On any given day, you can find Zac crafting guidance on the safe and responsible use of AI, steering the development of AI tools in line with our risk management frameworks, and supporting the capability uplift of our staff to complete tasks with the assistance of AI tools.

“The thing I love most about working at Finance is our shared pride as stewards of policy frameworks. We are always looking outward and actively reaching out to assist other departments and agencies to achieve government objectives. This unified mission cultivates a sense of purpose and collaboration that makes every day rewarding.”

Introducing Leila who began her career through the School Leaver Program, which provided her with a strong foundation for working in the public service.

“In my current role as a Communications Officer, I engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, from internal networks to external organisations. My work spans from supporting internal communications to planning joyful fundraising events. This role is both versatile and impactful.”

Introducing Sebastian, Assistant Secretary, Home and Foreign Affairs here at Finance. 

“My team and I work closely with portfolio stakeholders and other central agencies to provide advice to government on new policy proposals, influencing the development of public policy and the future of Australia.

“We support the Australian Government to make decisions on Home and Foreign Affairs policies, and I rely on my team’s diverse skills and perspectives in delivering this advisory role. 

“Finance’s budget advisory roles are rewarding, high profile and challenging. Not many can say that they contribute to the decision-making on key government policies that ensure a prosperous and secure nation.” 
 

Introducing Noyal, a Priority Support Officer in our ICT Division. “I deliver ICT and audio-visual support services to Finance Executive and Ministerial staff.

“What I enjoy most is the collaborative environment and contributing to meaningful projects that enhance our department's efficiency. It’s incredibly rewarding. I have received exposure and experience with various technology stacks from Microsoft and Apple to further support our clients better. Finance is also supportive of my study and provides opportunities for me to enhance and achieve my career aspirations.

“My role has given me the chance to network and build relationships with Executive, gaining guidance from experienced leaders and enhancing my professional growth.”

Introducing Natasha, Assistant Director at Payroll Operations, who joined Finance in 2018. “I started in the Service Delivery Office Payroll Team. I developed my skills and specialised in all aspects of payroll while working my way through the APS Levels.

“I now lead a diverse team of eighteen people who provide payroll services across twelve government agencies. I liaise with internal and external stakeholders, contribute to policies and procedure improvement, and manage standard operating procedures.

“Working at Finance is fantastic. We have a strong culture and diversity network, and are encouraged to be innovative and celebrate our achievements. I am constantly challenged, encouraged to develop, and kept on my toes. No two days are the same.”

Introducing Tabitha, one of our Digital Cadets at 55 years old – showing you can start something new at any age.

“I am a part-time sheep farmer living on the beautiful NSW south coast. I play tenor sax in a band and love growing veggies, preserving food and planting trees – of which I’ve planted thousands.

“I started studying IT, Networks and Cybersecurity 5 years ago. I wanted to keep up with the times and contribute meaningfully, while remaining viable in an ever-changing world.”

We don’t know where we end up in life. Tabitha has found that having a go can give you a chance at something different, and working at Finance has given her the opportunity to do just that.

Introducing Kaiden, a GovTEAMS Engagement Officer in our ICT Division. Kaiden works with government stakeholders to foster collaboration and engagement within digital services.

“It's a dynamic role that allows me to contribute to the development and use of the GovTEAMS platform—a whole-of-government solution designed to enhance digital communication and collaboration.”

Kaiden has also worked in Shared Services on a whole-of-government review of Enterprise Resource Planning systems, which streamline core business processes to provide a unified view of operations and a single source of truth for data.

“I love Finance’s community. There's a real sense of camaraderie, and I’m constantly laughing and enjoying my work environment. The support and opportunities for growth are second to none, and that makes working here truly rewarding.”

Introducing Violet who joined Finance through the School Leaver Program as an AusPol and VIP Visits Assistant in the COMCAR and Programs Branch. In her role, she helped plan incoming and outgoing delegation programs and Guest of Government visits.

“Excitingly, I had the opportunity to come along on those trips and see my work and hard efforts through. A highlight was working on the ASEAN Special Summit where I booked interstate travel for around 150 COMCAR drivers and Finance staff. This opportunity opened up my eyes to the number of intricate details that go into making a visit happen, and the organisation needed when something doesn’t go to plan.”

Violet then joined the COMCAR Client Liaison Team, where she supports clients such as the Prime Minister, Members of Parliament and other VIPs. “This new role broadened my experience. I built on my administrative responsibilities that are crucial to ensuring the successful service delivery for all clients and care of our COMCAR drivers.”

When looking back at her time so far at Finance, Violet is grateful for the number of opportunities, life experiences and friends it has provided her. “The School Leaver Program is so useful in shaping your APS career as it gives you a head start straight into the public working force. I would also say that the program’s Certificate IV in HR/Governance assists you to grow your knowledge and confidence in the APS.”

Introducing Deon who works in contract management and engagement here at Finance. She also studies law at the University of Canberra and volunteers with youth groups.

“I help manage the relationships between our external stakeholders and Finance’s contracting branch. The stakeholders are very diverse, representing various sectors, government entities, private companies and businesses.

“Through my work, I get to learn more about the work they do and how they support the government’s initiatives and the Australian community.

“I enjoy the people I work with at Finance. My team members and colleagues support me as I learn about the work we do.”

Introducing John, First Assistant Secretary of our Digital ID and Data Policy Division. 

John leads his team to establish the legislative framework for Australia’s Digital ID System, which offers a secure, convenient and voluntary solution that benefits the whole economy. 

“It reduces the amount of personal information people need to share, making it less likely to be stolen. This will reduce scams, fraud and identity crime. Digital ID will help businesses verify customers at reduced costs and safely store and dispose of information.”

John also leads Australian Government data policy, including for Australia’s Data and Digital Government Strategy. Guided by Finance’s values of collaboration, innovation and being part of the solution, we improve capacity for government data to be used to inform decision-making and management of public sector resources.

John is also a passionate Movember Ambassador and leads the Finance team’s fundraising each year. 
 

Introducing Sarah, a Communications and Media Officer in the Communications Branch.

“Being part of the Corporate Engagement team has provided me with a strong awareness of our department's work and functions, which helps when engaging with stakeholders. The work is dynamic and interesting, with no 2 days the same.

As part of her everyday work, Sarah responds to media enquiries, assists Finance and our Ministers’ Offices with general media requests, and manages Finance’s social media channels and news monitoring platform.

“I joined the APS in my 30’s, after 12 years working in retail as a florist, managing events, shops, staff and marketing. Seeking a career change, I looked to the APS for growth and development. Without realising, business management had developed a foundation of transferrable skills such as strategic thinking, communications and stakeholder engagement.

“I was surprised at how varied and interesting the work in Finance is. Finance isn’t just about accounting – we have one of the broadest overviews of government policy in Australia."

Introducing Kelly, Assistant Secretary, Risk, Claims and Regulatory Reform.  

Kelly is a respected leader with over 20 years’ experience in designing and delivering regulatory policy, practice and performance. She leads several teams to drive fit-for-purpose regulation across Australia and internationally, including through a framework for best-practice regulation to empower regulators and policymakers to continuously adapt to opportunities and risks.

"It's exciting to operate at the heart of regulatory policy within the Australian Government, gaining insight into the diverse regulatory issues faced across various fields and shaping how Australia considers them."

Kelly serves as the Australian delegate to the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) Regulatory Policy Committee and chairs its International Regulatory Cooperation subcommittee. "Representing Australia internationally is an incredible responsibility—I get to learn from and share regulatory best-practice with global regulatory leaders."

Throughout her career, Kelly has benefited from the diversity of experiences offered at Finance including the Office of the National Data Commissioner. 
Kelly also serves as Champion for our Pride Network, one of Finance’s culture and diversity networks and communities. As Champion, she helps foster a holistic workplace culture that celebrates diversity, inclusion and the wellbeing of all employees. 
 

Introducing Ting from Data Analytics here at Finance. “Being part of the public sector has been incredibly rewarding. It offers the opportunity to make a tangible impact on society and contribute to meaningful projects that benefit the community, with the benefits of flexible work and a healthy work-life balance.

“Finance has a culture of promoting innovation and continuous improvement, and I influence policy and decision-making through data-driven insights.”

At Finance, Ting has connected with and learned from senior leaders. “Their willingness to share experiences, offer guidance and challenge me has helped me develop confidence. I’ve also gotten a clearer sense of direction for my career path.”

Introducing Sarah from the Education, Employment and Workplace Relations Division.

“I was excited to receive an offer for the Finance Graduate Program. I wanted to work at Finance because of the wide range of jobs and opportunities that are unique to Finance, as it is a central agency and the caretaker of many whole-of-APS responsibilities and processes.
 
“Finance places great emphasis on learning and development for graduates. Throughout the Finance Graduate Program, I experienced lots of informal and formal mentoring. I had fortnightly catchups with an executive and received excellent advice and guidance from my Major Project Sponsor.

Sarah wanted to work in Budget Group because preparing the Budget is a core function of Finance, and a key deliverable for government each year. “I have gained valuable experience in understanding the mechanics of the Budget process. Even though I have only been in my current team for six months, I have already had the opportunity to lead meaningful policies.”

“I feel like I am making a positive contribution to society. I have made new friends, worked in two vastly different areas, and already learnt so much. I cannot wait to continue to develop my career at Finance.” 
 

Introducing Willough from the Whole of Government Leasing Team in our Property and Construction Division.  

“I wasn’t clear on my future career aspirations. I joined Finance knowing I would get a range of opportunities and discover where my interests aligned with government.  

“My first placement was in the Financial Analysis, Reporting and Management Division, where I learnt more about financial principles, public sector accounting and government reporting.  

“I then moved into my current role, where I expanded my skillset in policy implementation and stakeholder engagement. I discovered a genuine interest in government property operations around leasing. The Finance Graduate Program has significantly shaped my career aspirations.”  

Willough found working in a central agency like Finance is an incredibly rewarding experience, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to a variety policy areas and support government initiatives across the public sector.  

“Through my work, I have had the chance to engage with numerous entities and help shape decisions that align with government priorities. I collaborate with stakeholders to oversee office leases across the country.  

“What I enjoy most about my role is the combination of strategic thinking and practical problem solving. Each day present new challenges, from collaborating with stakeholders to aligning policies with the broader goals of the government.”  
 

Introducing Baly, a 2024 school leaver who is part of the Learning and Development team. She implements training to enhance employee skills, support career growth, and foster a culture of continuous learning.

“My role involves helping identify areas where employees can grow and ensuring our training sessions are tailored to their learning experiences. Ultimately, to help people develop the skills they need to succeed in their current roles, while also preparing them for future opportunities.

“Working at Finance has developed my skills and deepened my appreciation for teamwork, mentorship and a supportive work environment. I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such incredible, talented and inspiring individuals.”

Introducing Sacha, who’s clocked 16 years in the Australian Public Service here at Finance.

“When I was finishing my business degree, I never thought this is where my career would take me. From humble beginnings joining Finance as a graduate in 2009, I now have the privilege of leading the Defence Investments Branch. I get to work with a highly capable team on some of government’s most interesting programs, including acquisition of conventionally-armed nuclear powered submarines.

“We advise government on the Nuclear-Powered Submarine program, naval shipbuilding infrastructure projects, and the Naval Shipbuilding Plan.”

Sacha and his team also support the Commonwealth’s investment in Defence portfolio entities, like ASC Pty Ltd, Australian Naval Infrastructure Pty Ltd, Defence Housing Australia and CEA Technologies Pty Ltd.

“I enjoy working in a role that allows me to problem solve issues while working with a variety of government and private sector stakeholders.”