Generalist Stream Graduate Program null

I felt like the Graduate Program enabled me to get a great job because I was really well supported, I was able to learn from my peers, and I had opportunities in multiple parts of the department, so I got to learn from many different people all about the different workings across the department.

I was really excited to join the Graduate Program because I knew that it would be a really great way to enter the workforce, and I’d be surrounded by other people who are also looking to advance their career. There are so many opportunities for professional development and to learn on-the-job, you’re really well supported by supervisors whose role is to teach you as much as they can and make sure that you’re getting the best out of yourself.

Jemma, Policy Officer  

Overview

Our work is broad and requires people with all types of qualifications therefore we are focused on attracting graduates from a wide range of disciplines. Generalist graduates work on a variety of programs and policies developed and implemented by the department. Some examples of this work may include but is not limited to: 

• contributing to policy and evaluation documents,
• developing and maintaining stakeholder relationships,
• consultation and engagement,
• regulation and compliance,
• liaising with stakeholders,
• legislation,
• research and analysis
• program and contract management

We want to hear from graduates from varied backgrounds and a range of qualifications including but limited to:  

• Accounting, Banking and Finance
• Business and Commerce
• Economics
• Public Policy
• Law
• IT & Digital Technology
• Arts & Humanities
• Education
• Project Management and Human Resources
• Information Systems
• Information Technology
• Media & Communications
• Actuary
• Administration
• Data Science & Analytics

Our Program

As a DEWR Graduate, you will be exposed to many facets of our portfolio as you build your capability during the Program.

Being part of a graduate cohort is a great way for you to transition from education to employment. We know first-hand the significance of this milestone and you'll find our graduate program connects you to friendly, experienced professionals who will help you apply your skills and knowledge as you start your career.

As a DEWR Graduate you will experience:

• a holistic view of working in a government agency through two allocated work placements,
• a formal learning and development program (including a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration),
• on-the-job experience and the opportunity to work with and learn from subject matter experts.
• a range of formal and on-the-job training activities designed to provide you with the tools to develop as an APS officer,
• working in a supportive, inclusive and flexible working environment, and
• various opportunities to be involved in a wide range of networks, social and fundraising events.

The DEWR Graduate program also offers:

• relocation assistance to move to Canberra.
• permanent ongoing employment in the Australian Public Service,
• career progression from APS Level 3.1 to APS Level 5.1 on successful completion of the program.
• support from a buddy/alumni.
• an Employee Assistance Program for wellbeing and career support,
• dedicated buddy and supervisor.
• a dedicated Graduate Sponsor/s passionate about seeing you thrive.

Positions are primarily located in Canberra.

Secure jobs are vital—driving future economic growth and providing people with certainty. We focus on connecting Australians who are starting, advancing, or changing their career with the relevant skills, knowledge, and experience to gain or regain employment.

We do this by actively filling skill gaps to support Australia's economic growth by identifying industries with skill shortages, including emerging industries fundamental to the prosperity of individuals, businesses, and our nation.

Our work makes a difference to the lives of all Australians, and we want you to be part of it.

Not only are we looking for strategic, fresh-thinking, innovative and high-performing graduates, but also, we’re looking for graduates that are enthusiastic, motivated and open to learning. Additionally, flexibility and interpersonal skills are key attributes that will help you be successful in your graduate year and beyond as you apply your degree in ways you never imagined! 

If you have a desire to work for a department that informs evidence-based policy which aims to help develop and improve outcomes for Australians, we want to hear from you. Pre-register/Apply now!

Further information about our graduate program, including what we offer our graduates, is available on our website.

Who can apply?

The program starts in February each year.

To be eligible to pre-register/apply, applicants must:

• Be an Australian citizen or will be by 1 October 2025
• Must have completed your university degree within the last five years or be in your final year of study and have completed all your course requirements before commencing our program
• Be prepared to obtain and maintain baseline security clearance

If you secure a place on our 2026 Graduate Program, you will need to provide evidence of your Australian citizenship and be willing to undergo a National Police Check and health checks as required. The department will guide you through the process of obtaining your baseline security clearance as part of your onboarding process.

How to pre-register/apply

We work collaboratively with other APS agencies to recruit talented individuals through other specialty graduate and entry-level programs. These speciality graduate programs are co-ordinated centrally by AGGP.

Visit the APS Jobs Career Pathways website to find out more or apply. Make sure you nominate the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations as your preferred agency for your chance to join us!

Pre-register now!