Graduate Development Program

Benefits Access to flexible working arrangements Supportive and diverse culture Comprehensive training to build foundational knowledge and skills Vocational learning opportunities A graduate‑specific induction program designed to help you succeed Access to on‑the‑job coaching Ongoing employment pathways for long‑term career development across a wide range of roles Rotation opportunities across the Department of Home Affairs and / or Australian Border Force Dedicated support from mentors, buddies, stream leaders and champions as well as the Entry Programs team Relocation assistance About the Organisation The Department of Home Affairs is responsible for central coordination, and strategy and policy leadership in relation to: cyber and critical infrastructure resilience and security immigration border security and management counter‑terrorism the protection of our sovereignty citizenship and social cohesion. We implement a strategically coordinated approach to the cyber security and resilience of all Australians. We enable rapid responses to threats of foreign interference. Additionally, we contribute to Australia’s prosperity and unity through the management and delivery of the migration, humanitarian and refugee programmes. We also promote social cohesion through multicultural programmes, settlement services and by managing and conferring citizenship. About the Role Our Graduate Program offers an exceptional pathway to launch your career in a dynamic and meaningful environment. The 10‑month program includes three rotations and is designed to align with your interests and skills and you’ll gain hands‑on experience across diverse areas of the Department. The program includes vocational learning opportunities to build your professional expertise, personalised coaching to support your development, and dedicated support to help you succeed. Graduates will benefit from a comprehensive induction programme, networking events, and mentoring, equipping them with the skills and connections to build a rewarding career. We put our people first, fostering exemplary leadership, collaboration, and innovation to make a meaningful impact. Our program invests in your growth, prepares you for a fulfilling and impactful career and for you to contribute to Shaping Tomorrow Today. Our graduate positions are available in all Australian capital cities. Applicants have the ability to express their preferred location during the application process. Note: If you are found suitable, but not offered a graduate position, you may be placed in a merit pool. The merit pool may be used to fill non‑graduate (similar vacancy) positions in various locations across the Department. Our Ideal Candidate We’re looking for passionate, curious, and driven individuals who want to make a real impact. To succeed in our Graduate Program, you’ll need strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, excellent communication and collaboration abilities, and a commitment to continuous learning. Key Qualifications Our Generalist Stream Graduate Programme attracts talented individuals whose key qualifications align with the work of the organisation. These include: Computer Science Cyber Security Cyber Security Analyst Law Enforcement Intelligence Information Security Public Policy Politics and Political Science Policy and Governance Sociology Psychology Criminology International Affairs Surveillance Government Investigations Social Science Business Administration Arts Forensic Identification We also value candidates with diverse qualifications beyond this list to ensure we meet the evolving needs of the organisation. Our programme seeks to harness a wide range of skills and expertise. This will support our mission and drive innovation in public service. We’re also committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the Australian community. We encourage applications from people of all cultural backgrounds, races, ethnicities, abilities, ages, genders, and sexual orientations. By fostering an inclusive environment, we ensure that our graduates bring fresh perspectives to their work, helping us to better serve and respond to the needs of the diverse communities. If you’re looking for a programme that values your unique perspective and empowers you to grow while making a meaningful impact, we want to hear from you. Eligibility Requirements You are welcome to apply for our Graduate Development Programme if you: Are an Australian citizen or will be by 18 March Have completed at least an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor Degree) equivalent, or higher equivalent by 31 December. Degrees obtained within the last 5 years and recognised by the Australian Qualifications Framework are eligible for the programme. Can obtain and maintain an Employment Suitability Clearance or an onboarding check as applicable. We encourage you to complete the Employment Suitability Self‑Assessment at … (URL omitted). Obtain and maintain an Australian Government Security Vetting Agency clearance at the Negative Vetting 1 level. If you obtained your degree overseas, you’ll need to have it recognised by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment at … (URL omitted). How to Apply Program will open on March Step 1: Online Application Create an account on our recruitment website to submit your application. During the application process, you’ll be required to provide: Personal information Details of your qualifications (including an academic transcript as an attachment, maximum file size of 3 MB) A statement verifying recognition of your qualifications if obtained overseas (attachment, maximum 3 MB) A short pitch explaining why you want to work with the organisation Your resume After you submit your application, you will receive an email confirmation. You can log into your account at any time to update your personal details or referee information. After the closing date, you can only update profile information (e.g. contact details). Step 2: First Round of Assessments and Interview This stage includes online assessments that evaluate cognitive abilities and skills essential for our graduate roles. We will invite applicants who successfully complete this phase to a virtual video interview to respond to several behavioural interview questions. Step 3: Assessment Centre We will invite candidates who progress past first interview stage to a virtual assessment centre to take part in assessment sessions. These sessions include a range of activities to evaluate applicants’ suitability for the programme. Assessment sessions are typically held mid‑year. Step 4: Referee Reports Referee reports will provide information about your: Employment history Qualifications Experience Role suitability They also allow the selection panel to clarify any matters from your assessment. Step 5: Merit Pool At the end of the recruitment process, we will inform you if you are suitable for the programme. We will place suitable candidates in a merit pool. Not all suitable candidates will receive an offer. Wait until you receive a formal offer before you resign from any current employment. Step 6: Verbal Employment Offer If we select you, we will contact you with a conditional verbal employment offer. This offer is dependent on obtaining the required security clearances, including an Employment Suitability Clearance and a Negative Vetting 1 Clearance. Step 7: Clearances All employees must undergo comprehensive security clearance processing before commencing with the Department of Home Affairs and ABF. This includes obtaining an Employment Suitability Clearance and a Commonwealth Security Clearance. For more information on our clearance process, visit Employment Suitability Screening at … (URL omitted). #J- #J-18808-Ljbffr