Graduate Program (Generalist Stream) null

Create opportunities by providing access to quality education.

At the Department of Education, our goal is to create a better future for all Australians through education.

By supporting a strong early childhood education system, we help children prepare for school and families re-engage with work. Through education and learning, we change lives – opening a world of possibilities for children and young people.

We provide advice to our Ministers and lead the implementation of Government policies and programs to build a strong education system. We draw on the best available research, evidence and data and work collaboratively with industry, stakeholders and state and territory governments.

As an organisation of approximately 1,600 staff, we pride ourselves on our positive, supportive and inclusive workplace culture that nurtures talent and encourages employees to achieve their full potential.

To learn more about our role, including our key priorities, refer to our 2023-24 Corporate Plan found on our website.

Make a difference! Join our graduate program.

Our Graduate Program is a great way for you to transition from education to employment and begin your leadership career. As an Education Graduate, you will be provided with varied and challenging work, supported by formal learning and development opportunities and on the job training and mentoring. Our graduate program connects you to friendly, experienced professionals who will help you apply your skills and knowledge as you build your career.

Successfully completing our graduate program will help you apply your skills in new ways while building a strong foundation for a fulfilling career at the department or across the Australian Public Service (APS).

A diverse and inclusive culture

At the Department of Education we strive 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. We recruit generalist graduates through the Indigenous Graduate Pathway facilitated by the Department of Defence. Visit the Department of Defence website to apply now, applications close on 15 April 2024. 

The department is also committed to supporting the employment and career development of people with disability. Visit the Department of Finance website to apply for the Generalist Stream - Affirmative Measures Disability. 

Eligibility

The program starts in February each year. 

• To be eligible to apply, applicants must:
  be an Australian citizen, or be granted citizenship before the commencement date,
• 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 a baseline security clearance.

Why join us

• Career progression: Start as an APS Level 3 and progress to APS Level 5 on successful completion of the program. Refer to the Australian Public Service Commission website for more information on APS levels.
• Salary increase: Start at $72,658 (plus 15.4% superannuation) and progress to $90,580 (plus 15.4% superannuation) upon successful completion of the program.
• Program details: 10-month program, involving two 5-month work placements, allowing you to work on a variety of priority policies, programs or projects.
• Learning and Development: Experience on the job training, supported by a range of formal learning and development opportunities.
• Buddy Program: We will match you up with a ‘buddy’ from the previous year’s graduate program, who can support and guide you by sharing their experience and insights.
• Location options: Canberra (some opportunities may be available in other locations). Relocation assistance is provided to candidates who relocate to Canberra.
• Employee Networks: Help contribute to a positive and inclusive workplace culture by joining our Employee Networks.
• Community: Participate in Social Club and Graduate Fundraising activities to connect with colleagues at every level.

How to apply

This year the Department of Education is participating in the following streams. You can apply for one or many of the streams below to be considered for a role with us. 

• Generalist
• Data
• Economist
• Legal
• Indigenous Graduate Program
• Finance and Accounting
• Digital
• HR

Visit the APS Jobs Career Pathways website to find out more or apply.