Graduate Program (2025) (Dec 2024)

Geoscience Australia is the trusted advisor for Earth science, informing government, communities, and industry with evidence-based decisions. Our research and advice span the unique Australian landscape, our vast marine territories, the frozen frontiers of Antarctica and geologic observation from space. Through the Graduate Program you can make creative and positive contributions that directly impact the community and the nation. The Graduate program allows you to grow your career by working on a range of diverse projects that have direct impacts on communities and the nation.

About the program

Discover our graduate program, offering you the opportunity to engage in a diverse scientific environment. Apply the skills cultivated during your university studies to practical work, playing a pivotal role in advancing Earth sciences for Australia’s future.

We offer a highly customisable graduate program, designed to your learning experience according to your distinctive skills and career aspirations. You will start the program in your home placement area, building lasting professional relationships with your team and stakeholders. You will then undertake three rotations in diverse science areas to expand your skills and experience for a successful science career in the Australian Public Service. 

Why choose Geoscience Australia?

Our graduates have access to unparalleled on-the-job learning opportunities, ranging from involvement in research field trips in rural and regional Australia to collaborative excursions with our partner organisations. Our Chief Scientist, Dr. Steve Hill, also hosts monthly workshops exclusively for graduates, creating an environment that nurtures scientific excellence and professional growth.

We offer a competitive salary and ongoing employment upon successful completion of our Graduate Program:

• Commence your journey with a starting salary of $72,897, as an APS4 graduate, plus 15.4% superannuation.
• Progress to an ongoing APS5 position upon the successful completion of the graduate program, with an annual salary of $84,286, plus 15.4% superannuation.

Be part of our progressive and inclusive culture:

• An award-winning organisational culture dedicated to fostering diversity, equity and belonging.
• Progressive flexible working arrangements and generous leave entitlements.

Gain access to industry-leading development opportunities:

• A structured 12-month program featuring three rotations in various scientific areas across the organisation or with our external partners.
• Ongoing support for your studies and professional growth, including an attractive study assistance and scholarship program.
• A comprehensive learning and development approach providing targeted on the job learning, mentorship, buddies, online learning and regular workshops with our Graduate Sponsor and Chief Scientist, Dr. Steve Hill.
• Home to world class resources and facilities, including the National Mineral and Fossil Collection.

Enjoy working in a vibrant cultural hub:

• Located in Canberra, the Nation’s Capital, where government, industry and academia meet. Canberra is home to many National Cultural institutions, surrounded by urban hubs such as Braddon, New Acton or the Kingston Foreshore, all amidst the backdrop of the national parks and conveniently close to remarkable destinations just a short drive away,
• Enjoy the free onsite parking and gym facilities.

Eligibility

To be eligible for our graduate program you must:

• Be able to obtain and maintain a Baseline level security clearance or hold a current security clearance of an appropriate level.
• Satisfy a police history check prior to commencement of employment.
• Be an Australian citizen at the closing date of application.
• Have completed an undergraduate or postgraduate degree by February 2025, or within the last four years.
• Live and work in Canberra (Geoscience Australia will support with relocation costs, where required).

Fast Facts

• Location: Symonston, Canberra ACT
• Opportunity to experience 3 rotations across diverse scientific environments
• Commencement classification: APS4 level employee ($72,897 +15.4% superannuation)
• Completion classification: ongoing APS5 level employee ($84,286 + 15.4% superannuation)
• Blended learning and development model that supports you with targeted on the job learning, mentorship, buddies, online learning and regular workshops with our Graduate Sponsor and Chief Scientist, Dr. Steve Hill.