DTA report reveals APS digital talent shortfall

The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) has released its 2025 APS Digital Workforce Insights Report. The report considers the potential workforce required to fulfil digital service commitments in the next five years and where challenges exist to ‘old ways’ of resourcing capability.

The report states that digital capability continues to grow in demand across the Australian Public Service (APS) as agencies modernise services and capture opportunities arising from emerging technologies. The report identifies how the public sector can be better prepared for future demand, strengthen technical capability and attract talent across Australia to support ongoing transformation.

Projections show that, if current trends continue, the APS digital workforce will grow by around 7% each year over the next five years. With almost one in five digital professionals reaching the average age of retirement by 2030, the APS will need to attract and develop talent for more than 8000 roles to build a skilled, adaptable and future-ready workforce.

“This report gives us a clearer picture of where we are today, and what we need to do to build the workforce of tomorrow,” said Chris Fechner, CEO of the DTA and Head of the APS Digital Profession. “Critically, it reinforces that digital capability is central to how government delivers for Australians.

“By investing in skills, partnerships and career development, we can build a confident, capable and connected APS workforce ready to meet the opportunities of a rapidly changing digital landscape. It reflects the shared commitment across the APS to build the skills and talent needed to deliver digital services that meet the needs of all Australians.”

The report highlights however, that more than 70% of agencies report critical digital skill shortages. Addressing these gaps will require a coordinated, whole-of-service approach to reskilling and upskilling. Building capability at scale will allow the APS to reduce reliance on contractors and ensure inhouse expertise evolves alongside technology.

The report says the APS can broaden its approach to digital capability by diversifying education and entry pathways. Strengthening partnerships with vocational and micro-credential providers will help align learning with workforce needs and expand access to skilled candidates across all levels of government.

Creating structured career pathways will also be critical to workforce retention and progression.

There is also a need for greater location diversity. “Australia’s digital expertise extends well beyond Canberra,” said Fechner. “By recruiting more flexibly and inclusively, the APS can draw on talent from across the nation to strengthen capability and better reflect the communities it serves.”

Expanding recruitment across Australia will help the APS to tap into a broader range of skillsets and experience, strengthen regional economies and create a more balanced, distributed workforce.

“The APS has a unique opportunity to lead by example in developing a word-class digital workforce,” continued Fechner. “By acting on these insights, we can ensure our people have the skills and confidence to deliver trusted, modern and connected services for all Australians.”

To view the full report, click here.

Image credit: iStock.com/Constantinis