Certificate IV in Government (PSP40122) – APS Training

Build APS workforce capability with the nationally recognised Certificate IV in Government (PSP40122).
Delivered by McMillan Staff Development in Canberra and online, this program equips APS teams with the knowledge, compliance, and ethical decision-making skills needed across government.

Certificate IV In Government

Why Choose the Certificate IV in Government?

  • APS-focused training: Aligned with the APS Values and Code of Conduct.
  • Flexible delivery: Study online, in virtual workshops, or workplace-based.
  • Career progression: Ideal for APS4–5 staff seeking advancement.
  • Experienced trainers: Learn from specialists in public sector capability.

This qualification is available to APS agencies as a workforce program, supporting capability development in line with the APS Learning and Development Strategy.

APS Career Outcomes for Public Sector Staff

Graduates of this course are equipped for roles such as:

Designed for APS workforce groups, PSP40122 equips staff with practical, workplace-ready skills. Agencies interested in offering the program can contact McMillan directly.

Certificate IV in Government Modules and Units

McMillan’s Certificate IV in Government (PSP40122) is delivered as a workplace program for APS and public sector teams. The qualification is built around five modules that strengthen capability in compliance, ethics, communication, and public service practice. Each module combines practical skill-building with applied theory, giving agencies a structured pathway to lift workforce performance.

Public Service culture and conditions

This module introduces the core culture of the Australian Public Service. Staff learn how to comply with key legislation, uphold the APS Values and Code of Conduct, and understand the behavioural standards expected in government roles. The module also connects day-to-day tasks to the broader purpose of government, helping teams see how their work contributes to organisational and national outcomes.

Units of competency

  • PSPETH006 Uphold values and ethos of public service
  • PSPLEG006 Encourage compliance with legislation in the public sector
  • PSPGEN114 Work effectively with diversity and inclusion
  • PSPGEN111 Apply government processes 

Maintaining Safe Workplaces

This module equips APS staff with the skills to create and sustain safe, healthy, and compliant work environments. Participants learn to identify and manage risks, meet legislative responsibilities, and apply environmentally sustainable work practices that support both organisational safety and government policy objectives.

Units of competency

  • BSBWHS311 Assist with maintaining workplace safety
  • PSPGEN133 Identify and treat risks
  • BSBSUS411 Implement and monitor environmentally sustainable work practices

Gathering Information and Effective communication

This module develops the capability to collect, organise, and communicate information within APS workplaces. Participants strengthen skills in sourcing and assessing information, applying clear and professional communication strategies, and producing high-level written documents that meet public sector standards.

Units of competency

  • PSPGEN138 Organise workplace information
  • PSPGEN143 Use advanced workplace communication strategies
  • PSPGEN141 Prepare high-level written communication

Building Relationships

This module builds the skills needed to foster positive workplace relationships, engage with stakeholders, and manage conflict constructively. Participants learn approaches to collaboration and negotiation that strengthen professional networks and support effective outcomes in APS environments.

Units of competency

  • BSBLDR413 Lead effective workplace relationships
  • PSPGEN090 Engage with stakeholders
  • PSPGEN098 Deal with conflict

Personal and Professional Development

This module develops emotional intelligence and career planning skills to support ongoing growth in APS roles. Participants learn strategies to strengthen self-awareness, resilience, and professional capability in line with workplace expectations.

Unit of competency

  • BSBPEF502 Develop and use emotional intelligence
  • BSBGEN086 Undertake career planning

More Information about How the Certificate IV in Government is Delivered

The Certificate IV in Government is delivered through a blend of delivery options.

  • Facilitated Online Workshops: Activity-based learning via MS Teams, recordings available.

  • Workplace Practice: Apply learning directly in your current APS role.

Typical course duration: 10 months.

Custom timetables available for employer groups.

  • Participants must be employed in a Commonwealth, State, or Territory public sector role.

  • Access to a computer with internet and webcam is required.

  • Recommended: Year 12 or equivalent education and strong workplace communication skills.

  • No prior qualification is required — just the motivation to learn and apply skills on the job.

  • The Certificate IV in Government is designed for APS workforce groups. Agencies interested in offering the program can contact McMillan directly.

Assessment is practical and workplace-focused:

  • Workbooks and learning journals

  • Presentations, case studies, role plays

  • Quizzes and knowledge checks

  • Third-party workplace reports

This ensures graduates can apply skills immediately in APS roles.

McMillan provides a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all participants.

  • Trainers are accessible through the LMS portal, with responses provided within two business days.

  • Where participants face learning challenges or personal difficulties, support may include:
    • Flexible delivery options
    • Learning assistance
    • Additional time to complete assessments
    • Referrals to external services

  • Reasonable adjustments are available for participants with a disability or health condition to ensure full participation.

  • McMillan is committed to culturally safe learning, supporting First Nations participants and those from diverse backgrounds.

  • Standard course fee: $4,950 per participant

  • Employer group bookings: Tailored quotes available based on cohort size, delivery format, and scheduling needs

On successful completion, participants receive a nationally recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF):

This qualification is recognised by Commonwealth, State, and Local Government employers, making it a valuable credential for APS workforce development and career progression.

McMillan offers Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer in line with the Australian Qualifications Framework.

  • RPL allows participants to have their existing workplace skills and knowledge assessed against the qualification requirements. Where competencies are demonstrated, formal training may not be required.

  • Credit Transfer is available for participants who have already completed equivalent units at another RTO.

This ensures staff are not required to repeat training for skills or qualifications they already hold. Employers can discuss RPL and Credit Transfer options with McMillan during program planning.

Who is this course for?
APS4–5 employees and Canberra-based public sector staff who want to strengthen their compliance, governance, and administrative skills. Employers can also enrol groups of staff to build workforce capability.

Is online delivery available?
Yes. We offer live virtual workshops via MS Teams, workplace-based delivery for groups, or a blended model.

How long does it take to complete?
Most participants finish in about 10 months, though exact timeframes can vary based on workplace arrangements and study pace.

Is the qualification nationally recognised?
Yes. PSP40122 is a Nationally Recognised Training qualification delivered by McMillan Staff Development, an ASQA-registered RTO.

What pathways are available after this course?
Graduates often progress to the Diploma of Government (PSP50122) or other qualifications that support advancement to higher-level APS roles.

Certificate IV in Government training Canberra

Take the Next Step in Building APS Capability

The Certificate IV in Government (PSP40122) is a nationally recognised qualification designed to strengthen skills and support career growth within the public sector.

McMillan Staff Development delivers this program in partnership with APS agencies and teams, providing flexible training options tailored to workplace needs. For employers, it’s a practical way to build capability across your workforce. For staff, it’s an opportunity to gain confidence and apply knowledge directly in APS roles.

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