The COO Committee (the Committee) met today at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet to discuss the following matters:
Remote working arrangements for the APS
The Committee discussed the work underway to operationalise flexible work provisions, particularly related to work location. The Committee agreed development of a better practice guide would be useful, to assist those considering requests for hybrid and remote working arrangements. The Committee agreed to continue monitoring the impacts on the system as arrangements are embedded.
APS Capability Review Pilot
The Committee discussed the capability review pilot and how agencies can best prepare for reviews.
Data and Digital Talent Pipeline and APS Academy Campuses
The Committee discussed the demand for Data and Digital talent across the APS and the need to consider employment options outside of Canberra.
Announcement of the APS Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Approach
Department of Finance advised the Committee the Shared Services Transformation Program has been replaced with a new APS ERP approach, giving non-corporate Commonwealth entities autonomy and choice to modernise their ERP solutions using technology and vendors that best meet their needs and budgets. A Deputy Secretary reference group is to be set up to advise on key decisions under the new approach, and to promote the new approach within their departments and portfolio entities.
COO Committee reporting to Secretaries Board – 2024 interim priorities
The Committee discussed the key strategic priorities for the 2024 calendar year, which it will report to the Secretaries Board at its next scheduled meeting. The 2024 interim priorities include:
- Continuing to drive and deliver APS-wide reform initiatives;
- Collaboration on focus areas including implementation of APS Integrity measures and Closing the Gap priority reforms;
- Increased information flows and greater visibility across senior leadership groups; and
- Increased strategic alignment with Secretaries Board priorities.
The Committee will consider the key strategic priorities further following outcomes of the Secretaries Board Review and completion of strategic planning activities.
Next Meetings
The next COO Committee meeting is scheduled for 27 March 2023.