Building on a successful pilot program last year, a new mandatory training program for Senior Responsible Officials (SROs) of digital projects will be launched in early 2025. The program will be delivered by the DTA and made available through the Australian Public Service (APS) Academy.  

SROs are senior leaders across the Australian Government who are accountable for ensuring digital projects deliver expected benefits for individuals and businesses. Experience shows that digital projects can be very challenging to deliver successfully and this program focusses on equipping SROs to navigate the challenges presented by digital projects with confidence.  

‘We know that having leaders with the right skills and experience is fundamental to delivering successful digital projects,’ outlines Jamie Whitcombe, Branch Manager of Portfolio Assurance. 

The program will feature a compressed ‘simulation’ of a digital project starting from preparing a business case for investment through to project closure. Participants will work to steer and govern the project successfully over its life. 

‘I think the content and delivery was great. It was extremely useful in improving my understanding of project governance and role of the Senior Responsible Officer, and I am now much more confident in undertaking this role.’ 
Pilot Participant, Training Program for Senior Leaders of Digital Projects 

“This kind of program should be recommended to ensure all senior leaders have the necessary understanding of governing ICT projects.” 
Pilot Participant, Training Program for Senior Leaders of Digital Projects 

When the program was piloted last year, 91% of participants reported the simulation approach was helpful and supported their learning. Feedback also showed that the program enabled and challenged participants to apply best practice as well as share valuable experiences with one another.  

‘Since the pilot, we have been working to strengthen the program based on feedback,’ states Mr Whitcombe. ‘This includes incorporating lessons learned from recent digital projects and adding a focus on building the commercial acumen of participants.’ 

‘The program will also have a focus on building enduring connections across participants to support ongoing learning and development.’ 

With growing investment in digital transformation to meet the needs of Australians in the digital era, the new SRO program is a key part of ensuring the APS has the capability it needs to design and deliver digital projects successfully.  

The program will help ensure SROs keep projects focused on what must go right to succeed. This includes by making good use of assurance, applying best practice benefits management and adopting proven approaches to digital design and delivery as set out in the Australian Government Architecture. 

Questions about the program can be sent to portfolio.assurance@dta.gov.au. The support of the Victorian Government in the conduct of the pilot program last year is gratefully acknowledged. 

The Digital Transformation Agency is the Australian Government's adviser for the development, delivery and monitoring of whole-of-government strategies, policies and standards, for digital and ICT investments and procurement.