Stephen Calder is a Canberra-based governance and assurance professional with a long-standing commitment to public service and community. He recently joined Centium, a leading consultancy specialising in risk, governance, internal audit, investigations, probity, and cybersecurity. In his role, Stephen works closely with Commonwealth agencies to help them navigate complex challenges and deliver better outcomes for Australians.
With a career spanning government, education, international hospitality, and compliance, Stephen brings a unique blend of strategic insight and operational pragmatism. He has undertaken numerous internal audit and assurance engagements across all levels of government over the past 20 years. Prior to this his experience includes senior roles at Parliament House, vocational education institutions, and international service aboard the QE2. These diverse environments have shaped his ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels and deliver solutions that are both practical and impactful.
Stephen’s core expertise lies in internal audit and assurance, where he is known for his ability to quickly understand complex systems, identify risks and inefficiencies, and articulate findings in clear, compelling reports that drive action. His work is grounded in a deep understanding of public sector governance frameworks, including the PGPA Act, Commonwealth Risk Management Policy, and sector-specific compliance obligations.
A recent engagement with a Commonwealth Government department involved a comprehensive internal audit of operational readiness and compliance across multiple service delivery sites. Stephen led the review, identifying gaps in policy implementation, inconsistencies in risk controls, and opportunities to streamline reporting. His final report not only met audit standards but was praised for its clarity, strategic insight, and practical recommendations—several of which were adopted immediately to improve frontline service delivery and compliance assurance.
Stephen is a proud Canberra local, deeply connected to the region through decades of professional service and community involvement. He plays drums in the ACT Emergency Services Pipe Band alongside his sons and their partners, and actively supports local events and volunteer initiatives. His community ties give him a grounded perspective on the importance of public trust and the role of government in delivering meaningful outcomes.
At Centium, Stephen is part of a team that delivers what they call the Centium Solution—a collaborative, ethical, and outcomes-driven approach to helping government agencies reduce risk, improve performance, and uphold integrity. He invites Federal Government buyers and decision-makers to connect, share their challenges, and explore how Centium can support their mission.
