Embedding the APS Values: Case studies and other supporting material

Please note: These documents are for reference purposes only and are no longer considered by the APS Commission to be current. They may contain good practice advice and/or advice on the transitional arrangements between the 1922 and 1999 Public Service Acts.

globe Useful references

Case study 35:
Centrelink:
Learning and development

Background

One of the goals outlined in Centrelink's Future Directions is to provide employees with the tools, knowledge and business intelligence they need to work effectively.

Centrelink's approach to learning and development is guided by its National Learning Strategy 2002-05. The approach is competency-based with the Centrelink Virtual College registered as a training organisation under the Australian Quality Training Framework. The college is an in-house team of specialists who deliver nationally recognised training to employees.

Description

Centrelink provides access to accredited learning programs and other learning opportunities within a framework that maximises existing skills and knowledge, meets individual, organisational and community needs and recognises achievement.

Key features of Centrelink's strategy are:

alignment of learning priorities with the business plan
a national induction program including the APS Values and ethics
the development of a learning management system as a single organisation-wide database to manage learning and development operations
integration of learning and development with recruitment and other people management strategies
- people are recruited primarily for personal qualities and skilled up internally
- individual learning plans are linked to performance assessment, and attainment of qualifications linked to pay
competency-based, accredited training with nationally recognised qualifications
- ethics is a component of the government stream of competencies
the development of a career pathways map for the organisation which plots typical career and qualification pathways across the three Centrelink work streams (customer service, business services, and information and technology) and through to SES jobs
structured learning time, learning through a range of mediums and experiences including satellite distance learning that integrates video, voice and data
development of a strategy to evaluate learning to the level of change in behaviour in the workplace and return on investment
exchange development programs-there is an inbound/outbound suite of programs organised between the Network and National Support Office.

Future work includes a project to link all technical learning (i.e. program, payment and service specific training) to an accredited framework, and the development of a capability model linked to Centrelink's future workforce needs. This will also be based on an accredited model.

Key APS Values

The APS is a career-based service to enhance the effectiveness and cohesion of Australia's democratic system of government. (s. 10(1)(n) of the PS Act)

The APS focuses on achieving results and managing performance. (s. 10(1)(k) of the PS Act)

For more information please contact:

ANTHONY TYRREL
PHONE 02 6244 5698
anthony.tyrrel@centrelink.gov.au