Generalist Stream

At DEWR, we welcome graduates with a broad range of skills, degrees and expertise. Whether your background is in the arts, humanities, social sciences, business or something entirely different, we value your perspective. If you’re open‑minded, adaptable and interested in shaping policy, programs or corporate priorities across DEWR, this stream is for you.

About the Generalist Stream

This stream offers a unique platform where graduates leverage and build upon existing capabilities in an Australian Government environment. Our graduates over the course of the ten-month program have exposure to work on a wide variety of programs and policies developed and implemented by the department.

Graduates in this stream have a range of degree disciplines including public policy, politics, arts, sciences, humanities, law, international relations, communications and business to name a few! In fact, graduates of all degrees are welcome to apply. Even if you think your degree may not be applicable, if you are open minded, keen to learn and interested in working in a unique and interesting department, this stream is for you.

No matter your background, you will engage in diverse and meaningful work, applying your skills and degree in unexpected ways. That’s what makes our work rewarding and impactful.

Our program

The department offers a 10-month graduate program, starting in February each year, and concluding in December of the same year. New and recent graduates with Higher Education (university) qualifications are encouraged to apply.

The program offers:

• on-the-job experience including the opportunity to work and learn from subject matter experts
• undertake two diverse work placements which provide the opportunity to work on a variety of programs and policies developed and implemented by the department
• a formal learning and development program
• various opportunities to be involved in a wide range of networks, social and fundraising events
• a supportive, inclusive, and flexible working environment.

When you join the program, you also get:

• relocation assistance
• permanent ongoing employment in the Australian Public Service (APS)
• career progression on successful completion of the program
• excellent employment conditions with competitive remuneration, superannuation, and employee entitlements
• an Employee Assistance Program for wellbeing and career support
• a dedicated Graduate Sponsor passionate about seeing you thrive.

What type of work will I do?

DEWR has busy and important remit of work in its portfolio – we are responsible for critical policies and programs that support getting people into safe and secure work and skilling them to gain or regain employment. We work on many aspects of the government's agenda, and our work is delivered increasingly through a project-based model.

Whilst there is no typical day for a generalist graduate and work can vary from day to day, some of the work you undertake may include:

• Contributing to policies and programs that support Australia’s workforce and employment outcomes.
• Supporting program and contract management across key employment and workforce initiatives
• Researching and analysing labour market trends to inform policy and program decisions.
• Drafting briefs and communications for Ministers, senior leaders and external audiences.
• Engaging with diverse stakeholders, including industry, community organisations and other government agencies. 

You will undertake two placements, which is a great opportunity to broaden your skillset, knowledge and develop an understanding about the breadth of work in the department which will help you beyond the graduate program.

Where will I be placed?

There are many different work areas within DEWR where our generalist graduates may be placed, each with different areas of responsibility:

• The Skills and Training Group implement programs to help people develop the skills they need to gain employment and build their careers.
• The Employment and Workforce Group delivers and supports national policies and programs that help Australians to find and keep a job, change jobs or create their own job through self-employment.
• The Workplace Relations group facilitates jobs growth through policies and programs that promote fair, productive and safe workplaces.
• The Corporate and Enabling Services Group provides high quality and trusted corporate and enabling services to support our Ministers, the Secretary, the department, and our client agencies to deliver outcomes.

Placements are based on the business and operational requirements of the department. Typically, where practicable you will be placed in a role that matches your degree, skills and experience.

Who are we looking for?

At DEWR, we’re looking for graduates who thrive in a culture built on collaboration and curiosity. We value people who bring diverse perspectives, listen actively, learn from one another and stay open to new ideas - because that’s how we create contemporary, fit‑for‑purpose policies and programs that genuinely support Australians to thrive.

Attributes that set graduates up for success include:

• A desire to grow and build on what you learned throughout your degree
• Clear and confident communication, both written and verbal, with the ability to collaborate and solve problems in a team environment. 
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to build relationships and engage with colleagues and stakeholders
• Curiosity and adaptability with a mindset open to innovation especially when to adapting to changing circumstances, navigating new ideas, challenges and shifting priorities
• Enthusiasm, initiative and a willingness to learn with the drive to step forward, try new things and continuously grow in your role
• A proactive approach to development, taking ownership of your learning, performance and career growth. 

Graduates of all degrees are welcome to apply for the generalist stream! Our program aims to attract people with a broad range of skills from generalists to specialists:

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

Eligibility

To be eligible for AGGP Generalist Stream, you must submit a completed application prior to the closing date and time. Eligibility criteria may also include the following:

• evidence of Australian citizenship
• have completed (or will complete) at least an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor degree), equivalent, or higher equivalent by 31 December 2026
• have completed your degree between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2026
• be able to obtain and maintain a valid Australian Government security clearance once accepted onto the program when required. Further information on security clearances is available from Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA)
• be willing to undergo any police, character, health, or other checks required.

How to Apply

We are a participating agency in the Australian Government Graduate Program (AGGP) Generalist stream. Applications are now open. Click here to apply!

Successful applicants will be placed in a merit pool that will be considered by the APS and Commonwealth entities. Please note that agencies and departments and will offer different employment conditions and graduate program features.

If you are successful in the process, you will get the opportunity to nominate DEWR as your preferred department.

Make sure you nominate the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations as your preferred agency for your chance to join us! 

If you have any questions, please email entrylevel@dewr.gov.au