Farwa knows that at the heart of every great financial system is a team of people dedicated to making a difference. As Operational Team Leader at the Department of Treasury and Finance (DTF), Farwa helps oversee the systems that support over 100,000 of South Australia’s healthcare heroes. For Farwa, the data isn’t just numbers - it’s a window into the scale and diversity of our state.

A career beyond the numbers

Farwa has always had a head for numbers. With a Master of Business Administration and an extensive banking background in Pakistan, Farwa arrived in Australia in 2014, determined to make her mark in finance. However, with young children to raise and a new professional landscape to navigate, the path to get there wasn’t clear at first.

Still, Farwa didn’t let this deter her. Instead of waiting for the perfect role to appear, she prepared for it.

“I didn’t waste my time,” Farwa says. “I completed Certificate III qualifications in both Finance and Accounting and enrolled in a payroll training course. I volunteered at my children’s school and the local library. I just utilised everything I could to find the right job.”

The ‘right job’ materialised in 2017, when a recruitment agency told Farwa about a six-week opportunity with the Department of Treasury and Finance (DTF) over the busy Christmas period. While a short-term contract could have been a deal-breaker for some, Farwa viewed it as the foot in the door she needed.

“My initial contract was extended for six months, and in 2019, a permanent role opened up as a Payroll Officer. I applied, won the position, and six months later, I was promoted to a Senior Payroll Officer within the Quality Assurance team.

“It wasn't just one step to becoming an Operational Team Leader - it has been all about growth. Coming from overseas and adjusting to a new environment can be hard. But the people around me were so supportive, they mentored and guided me thoroughly.”

A culture of connection

At DTF, exceptional outcomes come from exceptional people working together. As Farwa acclimatised to a new role and professional landscape, she found a team that valued openness, curiosity and connection.

“What I love about DTF is that even the senior managers are approachable. When I have a question, they are always there to mentor me. That helped me so much when I was settling in.”

Now that Farwa leads her own team, she’s passionate about paying that mentorship forward. She believes that the best work happens when people feel seen and heard, not managed from a distance. She prioritises open discussions - and an open floor plan.

Drawing on her Pakistani roots, Farwa has always found a sense of community through shared food and experiences. A passionate cook, she often brings samosas, butter chicken pies or apple cake for her team to enjoy.

“It’s a blessing to be surrounded by people who are so helpful. We have chats, we laugh, and we talk. When they are happy and feel supported, they are more productive.”

Shaping a world-class future

Farwa believes in building a team that constantly looks forward. As the department prepares to undergo a significant digital transformation, Farwa sees an opportunity to upskill her team, ensuring they can better serve the state and build truly impactful careers.

“The world is changing, and we need to change with it. I always ask my team, ‘Where do you want to be after five years? How do you want to grow?’ If they want to grow, I am always there to support them. But I only push those who want that push; I want them to realise their potential first.”

Farwa has experienced exceptional growth in her time at DTF, most recently through the department’s Aspiring Leadership Program.

“The course wasn’t just about managing others; it was about how I manage myself. I learned how to really listen to people and organise a team based on their individual strengths. It was good for my personal growth as much as my professional development.”

With her sights now set on the Senior Leadership Program, Farwa continues to learn new things every day. The biggest lesson she’s learnt at DTF? In every financial equation, it’s the human element that matters most.

“When I first arrived in Australia, I thought my career would be defined by my MBA and my ability to work with numbers. But here, I’ve learned that leadership is actually about people. If you show interest and you’re willing to learn, DTF is a place where that can eventually lead to something life-changing.”