Capability reviews show us how we are performing and where there is room for improvement. They are conducted under the Capability Review Program(Opens external website). This program is part of the Australian Government’s long-term plan for APS Reform(Opens external website). It aims to ensure agencies can deliver government priorities and outcomes. 

The review offers valuable insight into our strengths and also areas for improvement. 

The Public Service Act 1999 (Cth) requires all Commonwealth departments, Services Australia, the Australian Taxation Office and Australian Public Service Commission to take part in a review every 5 years. The review report is tabled in the Australian Parliament.

Liza Carroll PSM, Geoff Leeper PSM, Neal Mason and Lee Steel led the 2025 review, supported by the APSC. 

Capability review final report

The final report was tabled in the Australian Parliament on 16 October 2025.

A blue report cover with the Australian Government crest for the APSC and the title Capability Review - Department of Social Services

Our action plan

Our action plan will outline how we intend to use the review's findings to build our capabilities and sharpen our focus on policy excellence and impactful delivery. We are required to develop an action plan under the Public Service Act 1999. 

The action plan will be published by 16 December 2025. It will be available here and on the APSC website.

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