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Applications are now open
Apply for the 2026 Australian Government Career Starter program.
The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) is excited to be a participating agency in this program. At DEWR, we support people to have safe, secure and well-paid work with the skills for a sustainable future. One of our key initiatives is to upskill and train people through apprenticeships and practical on-the-job training. DEWR’s participation in this Program goes hand-in-hand with our core purpose!
About the Program
The Australian Government Career Starter Program (AGSLP) is a 12-month career development program. This program allows participants to build skills on the job, learn through structured training and work as part of a team. The program combines a nationally‑recognised qualification – a Certificate IV in either Government or Human Resource Management – with on‑the‑job training in the APS. Successful applicants gain full-time, permanent job in the Australian Public Service (APS).
With one application, you can apply for job in human resources, a generalist role or both! There are also specific application pathway for Indigenous applicants and those living with disability.
What’s in it for you?
As a participant at DEWR, you will be connected to friendly, experienced professionals who will support you as you start your career. That’s the TeamDEWR difference.
Participants complete a structured learning and development program and, depending on your area of interest, you will complete either a Certificate IV in Government or a Certificate IV in Human Resource Management.
Other benefits joining TeamDEWR include:
- A full time job with a competitive starting salary starting at the APS 1 Level classification - $57,497 per year.
- Career progression on successful completion of the program with the opportunity to advance to the APS2 classification – a salary increase to $69,828 per year.
- A supportive, inclusive and flexible working environment.
- Optional employee network groups including Pride, Disability, Gender/Women’s, Cultural and Linguistic and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network.
- 15.4% superannuation and four weeks paid leave per year.
- Christmas shutdown.
- Nationally recognised qualification of a Certificate IV in Government or Human Resource Management.
- Networking events.
- A ‘buddy’ from previous programs.
- An employee assistance program for well-being and career support.
Eligibility
To apply for the AGSLP, you must:
- be an Australian citizen or going to be granted Australian citizenship by November 2025 and be able to provide evidence of this
- have completed a Year 12 Certificate (or equivalent) in 2024 or be completing in 2025
- be willing to undergo police, character and security checks.
Who we are looking for
TeamDEWR wants you! If you are keen to learn, are curious and have a good attitude, we would love you to join our department.
Attributes that will benefit you through the recruitment process include:
- Communicating with influence
- Achieving results
- Displaying personal drive and integrity.
Most of all we are interested in a positive attitude and behaviours and the learning and experience that you gained throughout school and any extracurricular activities you undertook.
Application process
Applications for the 2026 Australian Government Career Starter Program are now open and will close on 31 August 2025.
The application process is a multi-stage assessment process and may include elements such as an online application, skills assessment and a virtual assessment centre, including an interview and group activity.
For specific questions relating to this job vacancy, please refer to the Candidate Information pack.
Contact us
For more information please visit the Australian Government Career Starter Program
Alternatively, you can contact us directly at DEWR: entrylevel@dewr.gov.au