A new report provides an in-depth look at diversity challenges and progress in the public services. 

Since December 2023, the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) has been working with a new strategy for promoting diversity within its ranks, particularly focusing on Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds in Senior Executive Service (SES) roles. 

The latest figures reveal that approximately 25 per cent of the APS workforce is from CALD backgrounds, reflecting the broader Australian demographic composition. 

However, this diversity thins out significantly at the leadership level, with only 11 per cent of senior executives coming from these backgrounds. This discrepancy points to ongoing challenges in promoting diversity in decision-making roles within the public service.

Across different departments and agencies, the Australian Taxation Office workforce has the highest rate of workers identifying as CALD (36 per cent). Other departments with robust CALD rates include the Department of Home Affairs (30 per cent), Services Australia (26 per cent), and the Treasury (24 per cent).

A spokesperson from the APSC says the new methodology for measuring CALD status aligns closely with the Australian Bureau of Statistics, focusing on an employee's first language spoken. 

This change aims to bring more consistency and comparability to public service data. 

While the focus remains strong on CALD backgrounds, representation from Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander communities also requires attention. 

Aboriginal Hostels Limited stands out with 69 per cent of its workforce from these backgrounds, indicating sector-specific success which could potentially serve as a model for other agencies.

The APSC reportedly plans to continue refining its data collection methods and expand the metrics used to assess CALD representation. 

This includes more nuanced data on cultural experiences and employee perceptions to enrich the understanding and strategies for diversity.