Unlocking the Secrets of the Department of Finance: Your 60-Second Guide to a Government Career 📊
Ever wondered what it’s like to work at the Department of Finance? We’ve read through their Annual Report, so you don’t have to! In this quickfire overview, you’ll discover everything from their key functions and financials to the academic qualifications and skills they’re seeking in new recruits. Whether you’re a seasoned public servant or a fresh graduate, this guide will give you practical insights to navigate your path to a rewarding government career.
AT-A-GLANCE
Name of Department: Department of Finance
Location: 1 Canberra Avenue, Forrest, ACT 2603
CEO (Secretary): Jenny Wilkinson, PSM
Total Revenue: Approximately AUD $1.26 billion in departmental appropriations for 2023–24
Total Number of Employees: 2,239 (as at 30 June 2024)
THE QUALIFICATION, CERTIFICATIONS, TRADES, PROFESSIONS, WORK EXPERIENCES & SKILLS MOST SUITED TO
Top 5 academic qualifications most suited
Accounting/Finance – Helps with budgeting, financial reporting, and analysing policy proposals.
Economics/Public Policy – Equips you to handle complex policy development and financial impact assessments.
Law – Useful for legislative frameworks, compliance obligations, and contract review.
Business/Commerce – Supports contract management, stakeholder relations, and operational efficiency.
IT/Computer Science – Beneficial for delivering digital transformation initiatives and securing departmental data.
Top 5 certifications most suited
CPA or CA – Demonstrates advanced accounting prowess, vital for managing public finances.
PRINCE2 or Agile Project Management – Facilitates streamlined delivery of high-impact government initiatives.
Government Procurement Certification – Ensures responsible and transparent handling of public procurement.
Certified Internal Auditor – Strengthens oversight and accountability across various government programs.
ITIL – Enhances service management and operational consistency in a digital-first environment.
Top 5 trades/professions most suited
Project Management – Critical for coordinating cross-portfolio programs and delivering efficient outcomes.
Administration/Clerical – Forms the backbone of day-to-day departmental operations.
Communications/Media – Keeps the public informed about departmental initiatives and progress.
Facilities Management – Manages office leases and property portfolios effectively.
Records/Archival Specialists – Maintains accurate documentation and retrieval of essential records.
Top 5 skills most suited
Analytical Thinking – Vital for interpreting financial data and producing evidence-based insights.
Collaboration – Ensures successful coordination between different teams and external stakeholders.
Attention to Detail – Guarantees accuracy in budgeting, contracts, and policy documents.
Negotiation – Helps secure best-value deals and strengthen relationships with suppliers.
Technical Literacy – A must for supporting the department’s digital innovation and data-driven projects.
Top 5 work experiences most suited
Public Administration – Familiarity with government processes is a significant asset for compliance and decision-making.
Corporate Finance – Brings analytical rigour to budgeting and resource management.
Policy Development – Offers the know-how for crafting effective, forward-looking policies.
Procurement and Contracting – Underpins prudent spending of taxpayer funds.
IT Service Delivery – Drives transformation with efficient, innovative technological solutions.
THE KEY FACTS
Name of Department: Department of Finance
Name of CEO (Secretary): Jenny Wilkinson, PSM
Location: Primarily in Canberra (with a national focus)
Year Founded: 1976 (in its modern incarnation)
Main mission and purpose of the department:
To provide high-quality advice, frameworks, and services to achieve value in the management of public resources for the benefit of all Australians.
Real-world example: Through improved procurement policies, the Department of Finance secures savings that can be re-invested into essential public projects, such as infrastructure or healthcare.
Main duties of the department:
Deliver the Budget and produce key fiscal updates.
Oversee government property, ensuring efficient and sustainable use of office spaces.
Develop procurement frameworks to achieve best value for money.
Provide support to parliamentarians and their staff.
Real-world example: By negotiating competitive contracts (e.g., travel, office equipment), the department ensures significant savings and streamlined services across multiple agencies.
Key Projects, Key Strategic Priorities, Future Plans and Initiatives:
Continuing to advance the Government’s digital agenda, improving data usage and tech adoption.
Offering commercial, financial, and policy advice on major government priorities (e.g., large-scale defense projects).
Elevating procurement and risk management capabilities across the Australian Public Service.
Did you know?
The Department of Finance co-manages large investment funds on behalf of the Commonwealth, ensuring high levels of transparency and governance.
THE EMPLOYEES & REVENUE
Total Number of Employees: 2,239 as at 30 June 2024 (reiterated for clarity)
Total Number of Employees at each pay level:
SES Levels: 76
APS/Executive Levels: 2,163
Other categories: Varied specialized roles (e.g., graduates, data scientists)
Salary Bands: From APS1 (approx. AUD $53,463) to SES3 (up to AUD $445,999)
Average salary in the department: Centers on APS5–6 for the bulk of employees
Total Revenue: ~AUD $1.26 billion (departmental appropriations)
Average Revenue per Employee: Around AUD $562,000 (i.e., $1.26bn ÷ 2,239)
GETTING A JOB AT THE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE
Which academic subjects are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Certificate / Diploma Level:
Business Administration – Equips you with foundational knowledge in basic financial and project tasks.
Project Management – Helps in orchestrating government initiatives effectively.
Government (Public Sector) – Provides a solid introduction to public-sector processes and regulations.
Bachelor / Master Level:
Commerce / Accounting / Finance – Essential for roles in budget management, financial oversight, and data analysis.
IT / Data Analytics – Crucial in supporting digital initiatives, automation, and data-driven decisions.
Economics / Public Policy – Helps develop, evaluate, and implement governmental policies and reforms.
PhDs:
Policy Research / Economics / Law – Delivers in-depth research capabilities, critical thinking, and innovative strategies for large-scale government challenges.
Which trades and professions are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
IT Support Specialists – Maintain smooth operation of digital platforms and government systems.
Facilities Managers – Optimize office leases and manage the department’s property portfolio.
Graphic/Content Designers – Craft engaging communication materials for both internal and external stakeholders.
Data Scientists – Transform raw data into actionable insights to improve departmental performance.
Business Analysts – Bridge operational needs with technical solutions for streamlined results.
Which work experiences are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Public Sector Contracting – Invaluable for the scrutiny, negotiation, and compliance aspects of government procurement.
Policy Advisory – Aids in shaping strategies aligned with national and community interests.
Corporate Governance – Boosts accountability and oversight of major financial decisions.
Financial Audits or Assurance – Encourages transparency and helps refine budgetary processes.
Change Management – Ensures successful adoption of new technologies and processes within the department.
Which skills are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Soft skills: Communication, adaptability, problem-solving, interpersonal management
Technical skills: Financial modelling, analytics software proficiency, database management
General skills: Writing, presentation, leadership, stakeholder engagement
Which hobbies and interests align with the work of this department?
Budget & Economic News Tracking: Reflects an ongoing interest in financial updates and public policy.
Data & Tech Savviness: Staying at the forefront of emerging digital trends.
Community Service/Volunteering: Demonstrates commitment to the public good.
Team Sports or Collaborative Activities: Encourages cooperation and effective teamwork.
Writing/Blogging: Enhances your capacity to draft coherent policies and official documents.
Want more information on this department?
Contact the Department:
Address: 1 Canberra Avenue, Forrest, ACT 2603, Australia
Telephone: +61 2 6215 2222
Email: annualreport@finance.gov.au
Website:
https://www.finance.gov.au
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