The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) is at the centre of the Australian Public Service (APS). We support the Prime Minister, the Cabinet and portfolio ministers by leading and convening stakeholders across the APS to address our biggest national challenges.

Occupying this position is a privilege. We must constantly lift our standards, continuously learn and adapt, and strengthen our capabilities to meet the challenges ahead.

PM&C’s recent capability review has given us an opportunity to reflect and sharpen our focus on how we undertake our work.

The capability review recognises our strengths: our specialist expertise, our trusted relationships, and our committed workforce. It challenges us to aim higher: to strengthen our leadership and governance, sharpen our strategic focus, and improve how we collaborate across the APS.

In short, the capability review tells us we must continue leading with purpose. To that end, I am pleased to present the PM&C Capability Review Action Plan.

This plan will guide how we strengthen capability. We will focus on empowering a capable and confident workforce, fostering genuine collaboration and strengthening how we operate. Consolidating these foundations will help us lead from the centre with clarity, courage and impact.

I would like to thank the independent senior reviewers – Helen Silver AO, David Tune AO PSM, David Mackay and Celia Street PSM – for their considered insights and collaborative approach throughout the review. I also want to acknowledge the Australian Public Service Commission, and its commitment to building a resilient, innovative and people-focused public service.

Dr Steven Kennedy PSM
Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet