Now Open: Apply for the APS WoC ELP

The Australian Public Service (APS) Women of Colour Executive Leadership Program (WoC ELP) - directly supports the APS CALD Employment Strategy's commitment to increasing CALD representation in the Senior Executive Service (SES) at the agency level. Our program aligns with two key Headline Action Items: Headline Action Item #3 - Leadership and Management, and Headline Action Item #5 - Representation.

 

Headline Action Item #3: Leadership and Management


The APS WoC ELP addresses this action item by focusing on sponsorship for WoC employees. The program directly contributes to fostering inclusive leadership within the APS by incorporating a dedicated module on Allyship and Sponsorship in its curriculum. Key components of this approach include:

 

1. Sponsorship of WoC Employees: Encouraging and facilitating the establishment of sponsorship relationships between APS leaders and WoC employees. This support system promotes career advancement, contributes to creating a more inclusive work environment, and is specifically addressed through our program's Allyship and Sponsorship module.
 
Headline Action Item #5: Representation
 
This action item establishes a reportable benchmark of 24% for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) representation in the SES, aiming to foster a more inclusive and diverse public service. The APS WoC ELP actively contributes to achieving this benchmark by empowering Women of Colour within the APS and supporting their career progression.
 
The program's comprehensive approach to leadership development enhances both the participant and the organisation's capabilities and talent development. As more Women of Colour advance to executive levels, the APS will benefit from a more diverse and inclusive leadership, leading to enriched policy debates and improved program implementation.


By aligning with the APS CALD Employment Strategy and actively supporting its goals, the APS WoC ELP plays a pivotal role in creating a more representative and inclusive public service. This commitment to diversity and inclusivity strengthens the APS's ability to serve the Australian community effectively.

"The APS is fortunate in having rich cultural, linguistic and racial diversity. Yet this diversity is not mirrored in senior ranks. The APS needs to ensure its senior leadership also reflects the broader Australian population. This is not only a case for equity, but also for productivity. Ultimately everything the APS does is for the purpose of advising government and serving the Australian community." - The Hon Katy Gallagher, Minister for the Public Service & The Hon Patrick Gorman MP Assistant Minister for the Public Service

"It is fundamentally important to me that everyone in the APS can flourish, with their cultural, linguistic, racial, social or religious background, or other aspect of their self" - Dr. Gordon de Brouwer, Australian Public Service Commissioner

Attribution: The APS Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Employment Strategy and Action Plan.

Program Overview

Women of Colour Australia (WoCA) proudly presents the APS WoC ELP. This transformative program nurtures and empowers Women of Colour within the APS. In line with the first-ever APS CALD Employment Strategy, our initiative contributes to creating a more inclusive public service that reflects the diverse communities we serve.
 
Guided by our commitment to empowering Women of Colour within the APS, the WoC ELP offers a comprehensive and structured approach to leadership development through five interconnected components:
  1. Storytelling and Healthy Boundaries
  2. Self-Mastery: Identity, Authentic Leadership, Communication, and Storytelling
  3. Sponsorship and Allyship
  4. Ecosystems of Change: Adaptive Leadership, Transformative Cultures, and Indigenous Frameworks
  5. 1:1 Coaching
Our program features in-person workshops and personalised online executive coaching sessions that equip participants with the skills and insights to excel in their careers. By focusing on psychosocial safety, wellness support, and diverse perspectives, the WoC ELP empowers Women of Colour to drive transformative change within the APS.

Program Impact and Metrics

The WoC ELP has demonstrated tangible results in empowering Women of Colour:
- Promotions: 66% of participants have been promoted within six months of program completion.
- High Demand: The WoC ELP is consistently oversubscribed, with a growing number of applicants each year. In 2023, 50 people applied for 9 available spots, and in 2024, 197 applicants vied for 16 spots.
 
The following table highlights some key changes reported by our participants:
WoC ELP 2024 banner

Program Investment

The APS WoC ELP is an investment in the personal and professional growth of Women of Colour within the Australian Public Service (APS). With a standard fee of $15,000 (plus GST) per participant, this comprehensive program offers significant returns for both individuals and their organisations.
 
Participants will gain:
 
- Comprehensive leadership development workshops tailored to the unique needs of WoC within the APS
- One-on-one executive coaching sessions to accelerate growth and career progression
- Formal effective sponsorship and build the cultural capabilities of leaders
- A supportive network of diverse women who share similar experiences and aspirations
- Tools and strategies to drive transformative change within the APS
 
The WoC ELP has a proven impact, with participants reporting increased confidence, enhanced leadership skills, and career advancement, contributing to more diverse and inclusive workplaces.
 
Aligned with the APS CALD Employment Strategy, we encourage APS agencies to support and fund their eligible employees' participation. By investing in the development and advancement of Women of Colour, agencies demonstrate their commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace while directly contributing to the strategy's reportable benchmark. This commitment ultimately enhances the overall capability of the public service.
 
Investing in the APS WoC ELP cultivates inclusive leadership and bolsters the APS's capability to serve Australia's diverse communities.

Program Logistics

The APS WoC ELP will only proceed based on sufficient demand. Please note the following timeline and conditions for program rollout:

21 October 2024: Applications open
19 December 2024: Applications close
20 January 2025: Deadline for 50% payment
17 February 2025: Program launch (subject to sufficient demand)
18 February 2025 - 19 June 2025: Program rollout

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with eligibility requirements. Limited spots ensure a high-quality experience. Final curriculum and exact dates and venue will be provided upon confirming demand, delivering an outstanding leadership development program.

Eligibility and Commitment

Applications open Monday 21 October 2024 and close COB Thursday 19 December 2024.

Applicants will be selected based on the following criteria.

Eligibility

Applicants must identify as Women of Colour and hold a mid-to-senior level management position in their organisation. Applicants must currently be living in ACT or NSW.

Alignment

Applicants should be able to articulate how the program aligns with their career goals and how they plan to apply the learnings to drive positive change in their organisations and communities.

Leadership Potential

Applicants should demonstrate strong leadership potential, including a track record of professional achievements, ability to inspire and motivate others, and commitment to personal and professional growth.

Commitment to the Program

Applicants must be willing to commit the necessary time and effort to fully participate in the program and make meaningful contributions to their cohort.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Applicants should be passionate about promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in their organisations and communities, and be willing to serve as role models and champions for other Women of Colour.

Commitment to Safety of Self and Others

Applicants must respect everyone's unique experiences, maintain confidentiality, embrace inclusivity, and adhere to a zero-tolerance policy for harassment or discrimination, fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment throughout the program.

Definitions:
Women - Transgender and cisgender, all those who experience or have experienced oppression as women, including non-binary and gender non-conforming people and all those who identify as women. Self-definition is at the discretion of the individual. Definition credit: wire.org.au

Women of Color / Colour - "Women of Color is not a biological designation. It is a solidarity definition. A commitment to work in collaboration with other oppressed women of color who have been minoritized. It is a term that has a lot of power." Loretta Ross. Learn more here.

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to commonly asked questions about the program structure, eligibility, and application process. If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us at elp@womenofcolour.org.au.

What is the Women of Colour Executive Leadership Program (WoC ELP)?The WoC ELP is an initiative designed to empower and support Women of Colour in leadership roles through in-person workshops, personalised executive coaching sessions, and networking opportunities.
What makes the WoC ELP unique?
  • The WoC ELP Program stands out as it is delivered by Women of Colour Australia (WoCA), a not-for-profit organisation and registered charity dedicated to empowering Women of Colour in leadership roles.
  • WoCA's approach is grounded in research and evidence that emphasises the importance of contextualised leadership programs for Women of Colour, designed and delivered by Women of Colour.
  • By drawing on the lived experiences, insights, and expertise of Women of Colour, WoCA ensures that the program is tailored to meet the unique needs and challenges faced by Women of Colour in leadership positions.
  • This evidence-based approach enables WoCA to create a powerful and transformative learning experience that equips participants with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive as leaders in their respective fields.
Who is eligible to apply for the APS WoC ELP?
  • The program is open to self-identifying Women of Colour who are currently working at APS Executive Level 1 and 2 or above within the Australian Public Service (APS) specifically those who work in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and New South Wales (NSW). Our goal is to build a strong pipeline of diverse senior executive leaders within the APS.
  • Applicants must hold a mid to senior-level management position in their organisation.
Selection Criteria:
Applicants will be selected based on the following criteria:
  • Leadership Potential: Demonstrating strong leadership potential, including a track record of professional achievements, ability to inspire and motivate others, and commitment to personal and professional growth.
  • Alignment: Able to articulate how the program aligns with their career goals and how they plan to apply the learnings to drive positive change in their organisations and communities.
  • Commitment to the Program: Willing to commit the necessary time and effort to fully participate in the program and make meaningful contributions to their cohort.
  • Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion in their organisations and communities, and willing to serve as role models and champions for other Women of Colour.
  • Commitment to Safety of Self and Others: Respect everyone's unique experiences, maintain confidentiality, embrace inclusivity, and adhere to a zero-tolerance policy for harassment or discrimination, fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment throughout the program.
Who forms the Selection Committee for the WoC ELP?
  • The Selection Committee is composed entirely of WoCA committee members.
  • WoCA members bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and diverse perspectives to the selection process, ensuring that the most promising candidates are identified based on the established criteria.
What is the program structure?The program consists of five interconnected modules delivered through in-person workshops, complemented by personalised online executive coaching sessions scheduled between modules.
How many participants will be accepted into the program?The APS WoC ELP offers an intimate and transformative experience, with 16-20 spots available for participants.
When and where will the WoC ELP take place?The APS WoC ELP will take from February 2025 - June 2025 pending program demand.
What are the key benefits of participating in the program?Participants will gain access to comprehensive leadership development workshops, one-on-one executive coaching, a supportive network of diverse women, and tools to drive transformative change within the APS.
How much does the program cost?The standard fee for participants is $15,000 (plus GST). For APS employees, a separate funding arrangement may apply as part of the APS CALD Employment Strategy.
 
What if my employer is hesitant to fund my participation in the APS WoC ELP?WoCA understands that some participants may face challenges in securing funding from their employers. In case you encounter resistance or pushback, WoCA can provide a Letter of Support for you to share with your employer. This letter will emphasise the program's benefits, alignment with the APS CALD Employment Strategy, and the value it brings to both the individual participant and the organisation. Our aim is to help you demonstrate the importance of investing in your professional development and the positive impact it will have on your contributions to the APS.
When does the program take place?The program consists of 10 in-person session days and online coaching sessions. The exact dates will depend on demand and will be provided upon application and acceptance into the program.
How do I apply for the APS WoC ELP?
  • Interested applicants can apply through our online application portal.
  • Applications open Monday 21 October 2024 and close COB Thursday 19 December 2024.
Is there a specific application deadline?We accept applications on a rolling basis, and participants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. While we have a deadline for each round of applications, if you don't get accepted in the first round, your application will be considered for the next round, subject to availability and meeting eligibility criteria.
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We exist to champion Australia’s Women of Colour.

THE ORIGIN OF THE PHRASE “WOMEN OF COLOR”

"Women of Color is not a biological designation. It is a solidarity definition. A commitment to work in collaboration with other oppressed women of color who have been minoritized. It is a term that has a lot of power." Loretta Ross
Learn more here

WOMEN DEFINITION

Women - Transgender and cisgender, all those who experience or have experienced oppression as women, including non-binary and gender non-conforming people and all those who identify as women. Self-definition is at the discretion of the individual.
Definition credit: wire.org.au

ALLY DEFINITION

A - always centre the impacted
L - listen and learn from those who live in oppression
L - leverage your privilege
Y - yield the floor
*Mnemonic credit: Kayla Reed Executive Director ACTION St. Louis Follow Kayla Reed on X @iKaylaReed

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