Federal public service expansion to add 3,200 jobs in Canberra over three years

An additional 3,200 federal public service positions will be based in Canberra over the next three years following budget commitments in defence, cyber security, and health services that have been progressively translated into staffing plans by major agencies.

The Australian Public Service Commission confirmed the net headcount increase, which represents a continuation of the trend toward insourcing that began in 2022 when the government moved to reduce its dependence on external consultants. The growth is concentrated in the Department of Defence, the Australian Signals Directorate, and the Department of Health and Aged Care.

The APS expansion is expected to absorb significant commercial office space in Canberra's CBD and inner-north precincts, with the Property Council of Australia estimating the headcount increase will require approximately 45,000 square metres of additional government office accommodation. Three new purpose-built Commonwealth buildings are in procurement, with a further two government-grade fit-outs planned in existing commercial towers.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the public service growth was a significant economic multiplier for the territory, with each new government role supporting an estimated 0.7 private sector positions in accommodation, food, professional services, and retail. "This is not just government employment — it is the foundation of the Canberra economy," he said.

The expansion also reinforces Canberra's position as Australia's centre of national security work, with the cyber security cluster in Barton having grown from approximately 2,000 positions to more than 7,500 in eight years.

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