Overview
Leading effectively as a public sector Deputy.
The Deputies Leadership Program supports early-stage Deputies to step confidently into the demands of senior public leadership. Designed for those new to the role, the program explores the responsibilities, relationships and pressures unique to Deputies, with a focus on integrity, stewardship and leading at the political-administrative interface.
Deepen understanding of the Deputy role
Navigate complexity with confidence
Learn alongside peers across jurisdictions
Module 1: Thursday 17 September, 3:00pm-5:00pm (Online)
Module 2: Monday-Wednesday 21-23 September, In-person, Sydney (venue TBC)
Module 3: Thursday 15 October (Online, Time TBC)
Module 4: Wednesday-Friday 28-30 October, In-person, Sydney (venue TBC)
Travel and accommodation arrangements and expenses are not included in the program fee.
What Alumni Say
Perspectives from Deputy leaders.
Alumni from across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand share how the Deputies Leadership Program has shaped their leadership, from building strategic insight to cultivating their confidence to lead with impact.
Hearing from experienced senior people, both CEOs and deputies, about their view of the deputy role was very helpful for me in gaining a deeper appreciation of what my chief executive and minister might be expecting from me.Ben TemperlyDeputy Chief Executive, Strategy and Corporate Services, SA Education Department
Who It's For
For people. For purpose. For the public good.
The program is designed for public sector Deputies or equivalent with up to around two years’ experience who are navigating the transition into senior leadership roles.
Stepping into leadership
Developing leaders who lead with integrity.
As a Deputy, you are working across complex systems, managing competing expectations and leading at the interface of policy, politics and delivery. This program provides space to reflect on your role, strengthen your leadership approach and learn alongside peers facing similar challenges.
Clarify your role and responsibilities
Strengthen leadership confidence
Build trusted peer connections
Program highlights
Program Structure
Learning designed for balance, focus and connection.
In-person residentials
The program is delivered through two in-person modules, each three days in length, designed to support deep discussion and peer learning.
Interactive learning
Sessions emphasise discussion, reflection and shared experience rather than lectures or formal assessment.
Cohort experience
Cohorts are limited in size to support meaningful interaction and trusted dialogue among participants.
Program duration
The program runs over approximately four to six weeks, allowing time for reflection between modules.
Learning Approach
Real conversations. Bold ideas. Changed perspectives.
Peer learning
Learning is grounded in shared experience, with participants learning from each other as well as from faculty and guest speakers.
Facilitated discussion
Structured conversations encourage reflection on real leadership challenges faced by Deputies.
Applied insight
The program connects academic insight with lived public sector experience.
Supportive environment
The learning environment is designed to be respectful, confidential and supportive of open discussion.
How to Apply
Ready to join the program?
Your leadership journey starts with one step.
If you’re interested in joining the 2026 program, please submit an expression of interest.
Prefer to start with a conversation?
Talk directly with our Learner Services team about the Deputies Leadership Program experience, learning outcomes, and how it fits your career or organisational needs.