Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff

DSS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Workforce Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025

We encourage and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to join our Department. We are a workplace of choice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Workforce Action Plan guides how we: 

  • attract and recruit staff
  • retain and develop with placements and training programs
  • build an inclusive cultural environment that leads by example – find ways to share their knowledge and experiences.

The Workforce Action Plan complements our Department’s Reconciliation Action Plan.  It was developed through consultation. It was endorsed by our Department’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff National Committee.

Supporting our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff

We have a staff-led Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff National Committee and staff network. The staff network: 

  • provides support to staff
  • assist in finding solutions to address any concerns
  • provides Yarning Circles to support staff at the local level.

The National Committee represents the interests, perspectives and concerns of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through:

  • effective advocacy and engagement with senior management
  • quality and timely advice on issues that impact Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
  • advice and support to develop, implement and monitor the Department’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Workforce Strategy
  • guidance and support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to help them establish rewarding careers in the APS
  • cultural advice, knowledge and expertise to strengthen cultural competence in and across the Department.

Indigenous champion

Our Department has a dedicated Indigenous Champion. The Champion:

  • supports the Department achieve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce and service delivery outcomes
  • represents our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff at internal and external celebrations/functions/forums
  • promote support for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees
  • promotes the interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff with senior executives.

Contact IndigenousCapabilityDevelopment@dss.gov.au for more information.

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