Financial Decision Making for the Public Sector

This one-and-a-half-day course equips public sector professionals with the knowledge and tools to make informed, confident decisions that support financial sustainability and deliver value for money. It focuses on building a clear understanding of financial risk, effective reporting, and sound governance—core elements of responsible public sector management. 

Participants will explore the key drivers of financial risk and sustainability, examining how these factors influence strategic decision-making and long-term outcomes. The course also highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and compliance within the broader governance framework. 

Through a mix of interactive discussions, real-world examples, and practical exercises, learners will apply financial concepts in scenarios tailored to the public sector—strengthening their ability to respond to financial challenges with clarity, precision, and strategic insight. 

What are the course learning outcomes?

Learning outcomes:

  • Understand financial governance framework.
  • Recognise the key drivers of financial risk management and financial sustainability.
  • Build confidence in analysing financial information and financially sustainable decision-making.
  • Use tools and techniques to measure, summarise, and assess financial performance, delivering value-for-money outcomes.

What core topics are offered?

  • Financial governance for decision making
    • Fit-for-purpose governance framework
  • Financial acumen for decision making
    • Signing off on general purpose financial reports
    • Budgeting to support accurate financial forecasting and management reporting
    • Understanding and applying financial ratios
  • Financial sustainability
    • Ratios and other analysis
  • Asset management concepts and principles
    • Government business case and procurement guidelines
    • Asset lifespan costing decisions
    • Service level decisions to drive asset management
  • Financial statements, decisions and asset management

Who is this course suited to?

This course is designed for public sector staff who have a role in financial management or decision making, across corporate, policy and operational roles. This course is particularly relevant for finance staff and decision makers who are responsible for financial risk management or the financial evaluation of projects. 

No prior knowledge of the topics is assumed; however, participants with previous experience in these fields may benefit from the course to refresh and extend their understanding. 

What are the course credentials?

Participants will receive a digital badge upon successful completion of the course which can be shared across various online platforms so you can showcase your demonstrated skills and achievements.

What does my course schedule look like?

This course is delivered in a hybrid format that provides multiple touchpoints and reflective activities to apply the learnings in your work context.

  • Day 1: Full-day, in-person
  • Day 2: Half-day, virtual session

Note: Delivered on non-consecutive days. 

Commitment to all sessions within this course is essential for an optimised learning experience.

Upcoming courses

Date Duration Location Cost Register now
9 September - 23 September 2 days Hybrid $1500 (50% discount at checkout)
Register now

By registering for the course, you acknowledge the registration terms and conditions, including eligibility and cancellation policy.

If this time does not suit, subscribe to the newsletter for alerts on upcoming courses and webinars. To discuss custom training requirements, contact the QTC Education team by emailing education@qtc.com.au

"The hard-earned experiences of the public servant presenters offers the advantage of a learning experience tailored to the unique culture, challenges and practices of work within the public service."

Jared Johnson

A/ Senior Strategy & Risk Officer, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services