APS Strategic Commissioning Framework

Intent

The core work of the APS must be done by our core workforce – APS employees. This expectation will wind back excessive outsourcing and its impacts on the skills held and used in APS agencies.

All agencies must move away from outsourcing work that is the core role of the APS or the agency. Agency heads are accountable for rebalancing their workforce to prioritise direct employment, strengthen capability, and ensure any use of external expertise enhances the work and knowledge of the APS. The Strategic Commissioning Framework sets this policy direction for the APS and provides the advice and tools required for agencies to make this change.

This framework is focused on outsourcing of core work. For core work, it sets a clear expectation that most roles and functions will be delivered by APS employees, outlines limited circumstances in which external workforces could be appropriate, and ensures the APS maximises the benefit of any external arrangements.

Over time - when supported by APS recruitment, skilling and mobility - this approach will deepen system-wide capability and reduce the risks to integrity, expertise and public trust posed by excessive outsourcing. Monitoring and reporting arrangements will hold agencies accountable for their progress.

Audience

This framework helps agency heads meet their responsibilities to reduce reliance on the external workforce and prioritise APS employment and capability[1]

It should be used by decision-makers leading teams or functions. Corporate areas will embed it into policies and business processes.

Agencies will apply this framework to re-balance their workforce while delivering on their priorities. The framework is outcomes-focused, principles based and whole-of-service, allowing each agency flexibility to deliver results it in a way that works for its circumstances.

When to use the framework

The framework applies initially to all entities that employ staff under the Public Service Act 1999. Other Commonwealth entities are encouraged to follow the framework. Over time, the range of entities applying the framework is intended to grow.

The framework should be used in the following contexts:

• to review how existing functions and roles are resourced
• to convert core work done by labour hire, contractors and consultants to APS employees
• as emerging priorities and/or projects need to be resourced and delivered.

The framework is not intended to replace grant arrangements under the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Guidelines 2017 (CGRGs) and programs managed by third party organisations are out of scope.