Career guide
APS Senior Officer Roles: How to Progress from APS 6 to EL2
What does a APS Senior Officer do?
APS Senior Officers at EL1 and EL2 level are the management backbone of the Australian Public Service. EL1s (Assistant Directors, Senior Advisors) lead teams and deliver complex program work. EL2s (Directors, Branch Managers) lead functions and provide strategic advice to SES. The transition from APS 6 to EL1 is one of the most competitive steps in an APS career.
Key responsibilities
- Lead and manage APS teams delivering complex work programs
- Provide high-quality advice and analysis to senior officials
- Manage stakeholder relationships across government
- Drive operational and policy outcomes for the branch or section
- Develop and manage team members and provide performance feedback
- Represent the agency with external stakeholders and partners
Qualifications for this role
Nationally recognised qualifications most commonly held by APS Senior Officers in Australia.
Typical career progression
- 1APS 5–6 → EL1 (Assistant Director)
- 2EL1 → EL2 (Director)
- 3EL2 → SES Band 1 (First Assistant Secretary)
- 4SES Band 1 → SES Band 2–3
Skills in demand
AI impact on this role: Low
The judgement, accountability, and stakeholder management at senior APS levels is deeply human. AI tools will improve research and drafting efficiency, but the core senior officer role remains central to how government functions.
Salary data: APS Remuneration Survey 2025. Figures are indicative and vary by employer, state, sector, and experience level.
Study to become a APS Senior Officer
Enquire free. A registered RTO will send you pathway and pricing information.