Frequently Asked Questions

Are you a driven leader who’s willing to help make Tasmania a better place for everyone? The Tasmanian Leaders Program offers you an immersive experience to give you valuable insights, gain skills and advance your leadership development.

We’re sure you have many questions before you apply, so we’ve answered some of the most common ones below to help you decide. And if you need more information, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help!

Still weighing the decision to apply?

It’s natural to feel unsure when considering a commitment like this but think about the incredible opportunities ahead. The Tasmanian Leaders Program is designed to challenge and inspire you, offering not only personal growth but also the chance to connect with a diverse network of driven individuals across Tasmania. If you’re on the fence, take the leap—this program could be the turning point in your leadership journey.

Applying

How do I know if the Tasmanian Leaders Program is for me?

If you’re eager to grow as a leader and enjoy immersive learning, this program is for you. It’s designed for high-potential leaders from all sectors who want to enhance their skills, challenge themselves, and learn from others. The diversity of experiences and backgrounds ensures a rich learning environment.

Is this the right year to apply?

There’s never a perfect time! If you can make the program dates work, now is the right time. The commitment runs from February to November, with residentials and linking sessions spread throughout the year. If you’re ready to invest in your leadership journey, go for it!

What kind of people are you seeking to complete the program?

Each program brings together a maximum of 24 aspiring Tasmanian leaders. Participants are selected to ensure diversity within the group and their ability to contribute a variety of skills and experiences.

The participant group comes from across the state and is typically made up of approximately 45% from the private sector, approximately 35% from the public sector, and approximately 20% from the not-for-profit sector. Their average age is forty. This diversity ensures lively discussion but also means that, in addition to learning from the program content, the participants learn a significant amount from their interactions with one another.

A list of current participants can be found on our website and will give you an indication of a typical program cohort.

I am self-employed/ currently unemployed – can I participate in TLP?

Yes, a self-employed or unemployed person can participate and they are encouraged to apply.

There are two people from my organisation who would like to participate. Can we both apply?

Two or more applications may be submitted by staff from one organisation. Although it is unlikely that both would be successful in any given round, each will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and measured on the merits of the application and the diversity of the overall participant group.

I have applied previously, can I reapply?

Many qualified candidates may not be chosen because of restrictions on the size of the group and the need for diversity in group composition. Individuals not selected are encouraged to reapply in subsequent years.

Program content and design

Are there any assignments or exams?

No. The Tasmanian Leaders Program is an adult learning experience and does not include traditional assignments or exams. Instead, the program is grounded in action learning, where participants learn by doing, reflecting, and applying insights in real-world contexts. There is some preparation before each session, such as readings, videos, or reflection tasks. Participants also collaborate on group work throughout the year, particularly through Learning Sets and the Community Action Projects.

What is Action Learning?

Action learning is an educational process whereby participants study their own actions and experiences in order to improve performance. It allows participants to gain knowledge through actions and repetition, rather than through traditional instruction. TLP action learning is done in conjunction with others, in small groups called Learning Sets. It is considered to be particularly suitable for adults,as it enables each person to reflect on and review the action they have taken and the learning points arising. This should then guide future action and improve performance.

What is a Community Action Project?

At the opening Residential session, each Learning Set group develops a Community Action Project. These smaller groups of participants work together for the duration of the program. This enables participants to develop close bonds with a smaller number of the group to maximise the sharing of experiences while providing feedback and invaluable support to one another. A large proportion of discussions and activities will occur within these Learning Set groups. In addition to learning from each other, these groups are expected to deliver a program day focussed on an issue affecting Tasmania’s future and a project.

Does the program use any diagnostics?

Program participants will be exposed to a range of diagnostic tools, depending on the development needs and interests of the group, to help them understand themselves, their communication preferences, and how they perceive the world and make decisions.

My employer is unwilling to fund the employer contribution. Can I still apply to participate in the Program?

Yes, you can still apply. In your interview you will be asked to provide details of how you intend to
pay this portion of the participation fee. In any given year there are participants who choose to cover the cost of both the employer fee and the participant fee and negotiate with the employer for time off work to participate.

For people who are self-employed, who pays the employer contribution?

The business is assumed to be the employer and depending on the size and turnover of the company payment plans can be negotiated.

Program inclusions

What is included in the Program?

Participants in the Tasmanian Leaders Program receive:

25 days of structured leadership development across the year
Seven nights of accommodation provided for the three multi-day Residentials
Three one-on-one executive coaching sessions
Access to a wide range of curated leadership resources and program materials
Tickets for you, your employer, and a guest to attend three networking events
Four tickets to the formal graduation celebration

These inclusions are covered as part of the program fees and are designed to support your learning, reflection, and connection throughout the year.

What is the Tasmanian Leaders Network?

The Tasmanian Leaders Network is made up of all graduates from our core programs. It’s a diverse group of high-impact individuals recognised for their leadership and contributions to Tasmania’s future. The Network offers ongoing professional development, events, and networking opportunities, helping members apply their skills to key challenges. Graduates can also opt for financial membership to further accelerate their growth and development.

Who will be our core facilitators?

The 2026 program will again be led by an exceptional facilitation team: futurist and innovator Katy Cooper, trauma-informed leadership expert Polly McGee, behaviour change specialist Steve Willing, and leadership authority Angela Driver. Together, this dynamic quartet brings passion, optimism, and a deep belief in Tasmania’s leadership potential, guiding you through an inspiring journey.