APS Digital Profession returns to the DTA

Effective today, responsibility for the APS Digital Profession has transferred from the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) to the DTA.

The Profession was established in 2020 following the Independent Review of the Australian Public Service (APS), which highlighted the need to strengthen and retain digital expertise across government.

It was initially based within the DTA before moving to the APSC in 2021 to support broader digital capability and literacy development across the APS.  

This transfer aligns responsibility for the profession with the DTA’s role in supporting digital transformation across government.  

“As one of the longest running professions, the Digital Profession’s strength lies in its ability to foster connections across the government’s digital ecosystem,” explains Chris Fechner, CEO of the DTA and Head of the Digital Profession.  

“This brings it into closer proximity of policies, programs, and initiatives shaping the future of government – aimed to maximise the impact of leveraging innovation.”

Supporting the next generation of digital expertise

“As Head of the Digital Profession, I have seen firsthand how investing in digital professionals in the APS helps government build capability, strengthen service delivery and respond to emerging challenges,” continues Mr Fechner.

“Technology alone does not deliver better outcomes. It is the skills, expertise and leadership of digital professionals that enable government to design, build and support the services Australians rely on every day.”

Since its establishment, the APS Digital Profession has grown into a community of over 20,000 members across the APS. It has become a key platform that connects digital professionals, supports professional growth and enables collaboration across government.  

In 2026, it supports 14 Communities of Practice spanning digital disciplines and emerging fields, including innovation and artificial intelligence.  

These communities provide opportunities for practitioners to share knowledge, strengthen professional networks and learn from one another.

The profession has also delivered an ongoing program of events and learning opportunities, drawing on expertise from government, industry and academia. These activities have helped members deepen their expertise, share practical insights and stay connected with emerging trends and technologies.  

“The profession plays a critical role in helping the APS attract, develop and retain the specialists needed to deliver that crucial work,” continues Mr Fechner.

A key achievement has been the development of Career Pathfinder, a platform that helps public servants better understand digital career pathways and capability requirements.

The platform aligns roles to the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA), providing greater clarity on career progression and development opportunities. It allows digital professionals to identify the skills needed for different roles and plan their future development.

Looking ahead

The transfer supports a renewed focus on ensuring the APS digital workforce is well equipped to deliver effective government services and support ongoing transformation across the APS.

“The demand for digital expertise will only continue to grow as the technological landscape evolves,” emphasises Mr Fechner.  

“The profession has become an important part of the APS, connecting thousands of digital professionals across government. It’s move back to the DTA will help ensure it continues to grow, adapt and support the priorities of a thriving digital government.”

The DTA remains committed to continue working closely with agencies and profession members to support career development, strengthen capability and foster a connected, future-ready digital workforce across the APS.