Graduate Development Program (Jan 2025)

If you have a strong vision for Australia's future and a willingness to identify problems and implement innovative solutions, we encourage you to pre-register for our highly-regarded Graduate Development Program. You will have the opportunity to contribute to vital work that enriches our communities, empowers our regions and leaves a positive impact for generations to come.

Our graduates are an important part of our workforce, which is why we provide a diverse range of work rotations which could see you:

• Regulating airports;
• Helping set the course for Australia's digital future;
• Implementing the Smart Cities Plan;
• Developing policy that protects our cultural heritage;
• Working on the development of the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport;
• Supporting the Arts and cultural sector;
• Assist in creating policy that protects artwork and artefacts;
• Providing advice on strengthening our national broadcasters;
• Developing policy for broadband, open data and media; and
• Working on the development of the Inland Rail.

We recruit a small group of graduates each year. This enables us to provide high quality, tailored support to each incoming graduate. We understand the transition from study to a career can be a challenging one. Many of our graduates relocate from other parts of Australia and, for some, it is also their first experience of living away from home. We work hard to make it as easy as possible and offer a generous travel, accommodation and storage package. We also help you settle into Canberra with plenty of housing, food and recreational recommendations.

The program includes:

• an 11 month program designed to build your networks and provide access to senior leaders
• three challenging and diverse work rotations across our high profile portfolio
• commencement as an APS3 employee (from $64,622* plus 15.4% superannuation)
• upon successful completion of rotations 1 and 2, advancement to an APS4 (from $71,600* plus 15.4% superannuation)
• upon successful completion of the program, advancement to an ongoing APS5 (from $79,935* plus 15.4% superannuation)
• a structured learning and development program to set you up for success including choice between a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration or Graduate Certificate in Policy and Data at the University of Canberra.
• Access to our internal staff networks and experience coordinating key corporate events including the Department's Social Club and Christmas Party.

Eligibility 

To be eligible for our Graduate Development Program you must submit a completed application before the closing date and time, and provide evidence or confirmation of the following:

• be an Australian citizen by October 2023.
• have completed (at least) an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor Degree), equivalent, or higher equivalent by January 2024
• have completed the most recent degree no more than 5 years from the date of the application being submitted
• be able to obtain and maintain a valid Australian Government security clearance once accepted into the program
• be willing to undergo police, character, health or other checks as required 
• be willing to relocate to Canberra.

If you require reasonable adjustments to be made to the assessment process please note this in your application and we will contact you to discuss.

Successful applicants demonstrate they are motivated to explore opportunities and exemplify drive and adaptability. They are responsive and comfortable with change. As a graduate in our program you will thrive on being challenged in a flexible and fast-paced environment. Above all else, you will have a positive attitude and a desire to learn.