Can Coaching Be Funded by My APS Department or Agency?

Many APS professionals are surprised to learn that coaching is often funded by their organisation.

While every agency has its own policies, professional development budgets and approval processes, coaching is commonly used to support leadership development, career growth and workplace performance.

Why Organisations Invest in Coaching

Organisations invest in coaching because it helps employees develop the skills, confidence and capability needed to perform effectively.

Coaching can support:

• Leadership development
• Career progression
• Role transitions
• Communication and influence
• Stakeholder engagement
• Confidence and decision making
• Managing change and complexity

For organisations, coaching is often viewed as an investment in capability rather than a cost.

Coaching Is Not Just for Senior Executives

While executive coaching is common for senior leaders, coaching can provide value at all levels.

Many APS professionals access coaching when they are:

• Preparing for promotion
• Transitioning into a new role
• Leading people for the first time
• Developing leadership capability
• Taking on greater responsibility
• Navigating workplace challenges

Coaching can be equally valuable for APS6 employees, EL1s, EL2s and SES leaders.

How to Seek Funding

If you are interested in coaching, consider discussing it with your manager as part of your professional development planning.

You may wish to explain:

• What you hope to achieve
• How coaching will support your role
• The benefits to your team and organisation
• How coaching aligns with development objectives

Many managers are supportive when coaching is linked to improved performance, leadership capability and career development.

Common Funding Sources

Depending on your organisation, coaching may be funded through:

• Professional development budgets
• Leadership development programs
• Learning and development funding
• Team development budgets
• Individual development plans

Approval processes vary between organisations.

Self-Funded Coaching

Many professionals also choose to invest in coaching personally.

Some do so because they want immediate support rather than waiting for approval processes. Others value having a confidential space to explore career goals, leadership challenges and workplace issues.

Is Coaching Worth the Investment?

The answer depends on your goals, level of engagement and commitment to making changes in between sessions.

For many APS professionals, coaching helps them secure promotions, strengthen leadership capability, navigate challenging situations and increase their impact at work.

The benefits often extend well beyond a single role or promotion, supporting long-term professional growth and career success.

Exploring Your Options

If you are considering coaching and are unsure whether organisational funding may be available, start by having a conversation with your manager or learning and development team.

If you would like to discuss coaching options, packages or flexible coaching arrangements, get in touch to explore what support may be most appropriate for your goals.