Queensland Government

Getting started as a senior executive

Use these resources if you’re new to the Senior Executive Service (SES) or starting a new SES role in the Queensland public sector.

They will help you understand your responsibilities and meet key requirements. You’ll find practical information to help you in your first months, and resources to bookmark and use.

Understanding your role

Public Sector Act 2022 (Queensland)

Learn about the legislative framework for the Queensland public sector, including the purpose and role of the SES set out in section 185.

Public sector principles

Understand the public sector principles and what they mean for your role and responsibilities as a senior executive.

Public Sector Ethics Act 1994 (Queensland)

Understand the ethical principles that guide public sector conduct and decision-making. Find out what they mean for your role as a senior executive.

Code of Conduct

Understand the standard of conduct you must meet as you undertake your duties and represent the Queensland Government.

Your first 90 days

Get started in your new role with resources to help you:

  • understand key requirements
  • establish yourself in the role
  • connect with available support.

Handbook and accountability guide

Read the Senior Executive Service Handbook and Accountability Guide (PDF, 1.8 MB). Understand the terms and conditions of your appointment and support you can access from the Public Sector Commission (PSC).

Declarations of interests

Read the Declaration of Interests policy (PDF, 269.7 KB) and declare an interest advice. Understand your obligations and complete any required declarations when you start your SES role.

Performance and development agreement

Within your first 3 months you must develop and agree to performance expectations with your chief executive. Use the executive performance and development agreement template to support a meaningful discussion.

You’ll discuss your:

  • performance
  • leadership behaviour
  • learning and career development.

Craft of public service induction program

Build your understanding of government, public administration and the Queensland public sector through The Craft of Public Service: Induction Program. The online induction program includes 4 short modules, each 20-30 minutes.

SES welcome event

Attend the SES welcome event to meet peers, build connections and gain insights into the SES role and operating environment.

Subscribe to the Public Sector Commission Executive opportunities newsletter to hear about future events.

Employment essentials

Understand your employment conditions and options for superannuation, salary packaging and flexible work.

Employment conditions

Read Directive 02/26 to learn about SES employment conditions, including pay, leave and other employment arrangements.

Superannuation

Find information about your superannuation contributions, fund arrangements and related resources.

Salary packaging

Explore salary packaging options available to Queensland Government employees.

Flexible work

Learn about flexible work arrangements and the options available.