Consultation - Remuneration of Departmental Secretaries

Review of remuneration for Departmental Secretaries 

The Remuneration Tribunal is undertaking a review of remuneration arrangements for Australian Public Service Departmental Secretaries.

Remuneration for Departmental Secretaries has evolved over several decades in response to changes in work value, complexity and APS-wide remuneration structures. Current arrangements have not been comprehensively examined for nearly 15 years, and the Tribunal considers a full review both timely and appropriate.

The Tribunal recognises the strong public interest in the remuneration of senior public officials and is committed to ensuring arrangements remain fair, transparent and aligned with contemporary expectations.

Review process

The Tribunal intends to complete this review by mid-2027. 

The review will follow an evidence-based approach. This includes analysis of work value, statutory responsibilities, relevant comparator offices, historical remuneration settings and APS structural developments. 

The Tribunal will consult, consider responses from interested parties, and apply contemporary governance and remuneration principles to ensure any decisions are robust, transparent and consistent across senior Commonwealth offices.

Consultation Paper – Departmental Secretaries

On 16 April 2026, the Tribunal released a consultation paper outlining the existing Secretary remuneration framework, providing an overview of how remuneration has developed over time, and seeking feedback on whether the current arrangements remain appropriate, effective and fit for purpose.

The Tribunal invited written responses on matters including:

• the overall level and structure of remuneration
• remuneration relativities with other senior public offices
• the suitability of associated terms and conditions, including non-remuneration benefits.

Responses will directly inform the Tribunal’s consideration of whether remuneration arrangements for Departmental Secretaries remain appropriate. 

Responses closed at midnight AEST on 10 June 2026. 

Responses received

The responses will be published here in due course.