The New Priorities for the APS: Governance, Design, and Capability 

Governance, Design, and Capability tools for the APS

Across Australia, public sector organisations are being asked to do more with less. Expectations are rising, budgets are tightening, and the demand for transparency, agility, and impact is only growing. From Canberra to local councils, the message is clear: transformation isn’t optional – it’s essential.

The Australian Government’s APS Reform Agenda is already reshaping how public services are designed, governed, and delivered. With dozens of initiatives underway, the focus is on building a public service that’s not just fit for today, but ready for tomorrow.

The next decade will test the resilience of Australia’s public sector organisations more than ever. As demands grow and resources are reduced, three priorities stand out: governance, organisational design, and capability.

Governance and Operating Models in the Spotlight
One of the most significant shifts is a renewed focus on governance and operating models. That means strengthening leadership, aligning structures with strategy, and building models that support faster, more responsive decision-making.

These changes go beyond structure; they reflect a broader cultural shift where agencies are moving toward more collaborative, accountable, and innovative ways of working. And that’s not just good governance, it’s smart business.

Designing Organisations That Can Deliver
As agencies rethink how they operate, organisational design and capability are becoming central to the conversation. Done well, design can unlock hidden value, streamline service delivery, and help teams respond to change with confidence. It also ensures that roles, responsibilities, and processes are clearly aligned with strategic objectives, creating a foundation for sustainable performance and measurable impact.

Capability uplift is also front and centre
Agencies are investing in the skills and systems they need to meet public expectations and deliver meaningful outcomes. When capability is intentionally developed, agencies can move from reactive problem-solving to proactive innovation and improve service delivery. By investing in their workforce, public sector organisations not only strengthen performance today but also build resilience for the complex demands of tomorrow.

Support for a Smarter Government 

This shift is not theoretical – agencies are already strengthening governance and redesigning operating models.

As the APS continues its transformation, one thing is clear: governance, design, and capability aren’t just operational concerns; they’re strategic priorities. To support this journey, TargetedBrains offers practical tools such as the free What is an Operating Model & How can you optimise yours? eBook and the free Building Better Governance – a DIY Toolkit, along
with expert guidance to help create smarter, more resilient public sector organisations.

The team at TargetedBrains work alongside clients to understand their unique context and deliver advice that is both fearless and thoughtful. Clients often describe TargetedBrains’s people as switched on, caring, and genuinely committed to making a difference for the APS. Not only do they deliver quality work, but they’re also great to work with.

TargetedBrains has worked with leaders across all levels of government to make these changes real. Whether reviewing governance frameworks, redesigning operating models, or building organisational capability, TargetedBrains’s approach is pragmatic, tailored, and grounded in experience.

If you’d like to explore these challenges in the context of your organisation, connect with Sarika Bhana, TargetedBrains’s Public Sector expert. She’d be glad to listen, share ideas, and work with you on practical ways to drive lasting impact.