We offer pathways and opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at any life stage to build and launch a successful career in the Australian Public Service (APS). Additionally, we provide many opportunities for your skills to be applied in different ways in the department and more broadly through a career in the APS.
We are looking for motivated people who want to launch a career and join the Australian Public Service to make a difference and contribute to the lives of all Australians.
On this page:
Supporting your career
‘I have been lucky enough to join the department through an entry level program and have now been with the department for almost six years.
The culture at the department values difference and culture and always strives to be all-inclusive. As such, we are looking for people that are dynamic, agile, inclusive and be willing to share their unique life experience.
The department has several support mechanisms in place for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees such as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employee network, Indigenous Champions, a Yarning Room and myself as the Indigenous Liaison Officer.
I would encourage anyone to apply for a position in the Department that is looking to create a fulfilling career that also gives back to the community.’ - Leanne of the Wiradjuri Community, DEWR Indigenous Liaison Officer
By embracing these strengths, we help create culturally responsive environments where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are empowered to achieve their full potential in the workplace.
The department promotes a culture where Indigenous business is everyone’s business ― across its work practices, values, and business. Employees are also supported through the provision of several learning opportunities to build their cultural capability.
We welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, mature age people, and people with disability, regardless of sex, sexuality, or gender identity.
Indigenous Graduate Pathway
We participate in the AGGP Indigenous Graduate Pathway which is part of the Australian Government Graduate Program (AGGP). Applications for the 2024 Indigenous Graduate Pathway are now open.
Who are we looking for?
We welcome applications from all degree disciplines to join our Graduate Program. Graduates should have:
- tertiary qualifications in any discipline
- strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively, problem solve and work as part of a team
- well-developed interpersonal skills, including the ability to actively engage with co-workers and stakeholders
- enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and an attitude open to learning and innovation. The department strives to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the Australian community and recognises the important knowledge and skills Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples bring to the work we do.
Wherever you start your public service career as a graduate, you’ll do meaningful work from day one with the support of a team committed to seeing you thrive. You will be asked to contribute, share your perspectives, and make a difference to the Australian community we serve.
What our Indigenous graduates do
As an Indigenous graduate, you will find yourself working in various roles that may include policy development and advice, project and contract management, program implementation, governance, and communications.
Additionally, all graduates in our Graduate Program will undertake a formal learning and development program.
Eligibility – AGGP Indigenous Graduate Pathway
To be eligible for Indigenous Graduate Pathway you must submit a completed application prior to the closing date and time. Eligibility may include the following:
- be an Australian citizen by 30 June 2023
- have completed (or will complete) at least an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor degree), equivalent, or higher equivalent by 31 December 2023
- have completed your most recent degree no more than 5 years ago on the date you lodge your application
- 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.
Through the AGGP Indigenous Recruitment Pathway, 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.
Other opportunities
Other entry level pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples include:
IAP is a 12-month entry-level employment and development program open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are interested in working in the Australian Public Service. Participants can complete a Diploma of Government qualification while working full time.
Run by the Department of Finance, the Career Starter Program is for students who have recently completed Year 12.
Provides opportunities for Year 12 graduates to enter a Human Resource (HR) career in the Australian Public Service (APS).
For more information, visit the Indigenous Careers website.
If you have any questions, email entrylevel@dewr.gov.au.
