New Partnership to Enhance Public Sector Governance

The AICD and IPAA ACT have formalised their collaboration through a memorandum of understanding, which will see the delivery of educational programs and resources. This initiative is designed to ensure that government instrumentalities — boards, committees, panels, and statutory authorities — as well as Australian Public Service (APS) and ACT Public Service (ACTPS) staff at all levels, are equipped with best practice governance skills essential to excellence in public administration.

AICD Managing Director and CEO Mark Rigotti emphasised the importance of the partnership, saying good governance practice in both business and the public sector is crucial for setting Australia on a sustainable growth path.

“By focusing on future governance challenges and fostering closer collaboration between government and private sector organisations, we can drive excellence and innovation."

IPAA ACT CEO Kate Driver echoed this and said strong governance and effective public administration are the foundation of prosperity for both business and government.

“This partnership between IPAA ACT and AICD builds on that foundation – to share expertise, explore opportunities for governance education, and work together on initiatives like the National Governance Forum that will strengthen capability and deliver real public benefit.”

The need for a governance uplift in Australia's public sector has been recognised for many years, with the APS review of 2019 identifying the need for change. The APS Commissioner has highlighted the significance of clear accountabilities in governance, trust and integrity as essential components of a robust public sector.

This initiative will also address the evolving landscape of AI and digital change, emphasising the shared responsibilities of government and the private sector in navigating these challenges to build an adaptable, future-ready public sector.

The collaboration between AICD and IPAA ACT aims to promote good governance across both the public and private sectors, recognising it as a key capability for the public service and the broader Australian business environment.

By working together, we can build good governance for the public good, driving economic prosperity and productivity.

Media contacts:

AICD - Jane Braslin, jbraslin@aicd.com.au, 0439 167 567

IPAA ACT - Ginger Gorman, ginger.gorman@act.ipaa.org.au, (02) 6154 9800