2023 Graduate Program - Register of Interest null

At DESE we make a difference – starting with you

Creating opportunities through education, skills and employment is at the heart of our department’s purpose. We seek to attract enthusiastic and motivated people who are passionate and want to make a difference to the lives of all Australians. Education and jobs are central to Australia’s COVID-19 recovery and the department has a big program of work to deliver. We are encouraging applications from people with a broad range of skills.

Our graduate program is a great way for you to transition from education to employment. We know firsthand the significance of this milestone and you’ll find our graduate program connects you to friendly, experienced professionals who will help you apply your skills and knowledge as you start your career pathway and find ways to use your degree in ways you never imagined!

Join us as we work to implement transformative government policies and programs and draw on the best research and evidence to improve education and employment outcomes for Australians. 

DESE Graduate Program

The department offers a 10-month graduate, 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. 

Located in Canberra, the program offers:

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

When you join the Program you also get:

• relocation assistance to move to Canberra
• permanent ongoing employment in the Australian Public Service
• career progression from APS level 3.1 to APS Level 4.1 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.

Most importantly, you will contribute to work that makes a difference and allows you to use your degree in ways you never imagined!

Who we are looking for

Our work is broad and requires people with all types of qualifications therefore we are focused on attracting graduates from a range of disciplines

Not only are we looking for strategic, fresh-thinking, innovative and high performing graduates, but also, we’re looking for graduates that are enthusiastic, motivated and open to learning. Additionally, flexibility and interpersonal skills are key attributes that will help you be successful in your graduate year and beyond as you apply your degree in ways you never imagined!

Career prospects

Successfully completing our Program will help you apply your skills and build on your experience for a fulfilling career at DESE or across the Australian Public Service (APS).

You will emerge from the program as a strategic and innovative thinker with a comprehensive understanding of how government policies are developed, and programs implemented. You will also develop excellent communication skills, problem solving, stakeholder engagement, and research capabilities. These transferable skills will be invaluable whether you wish to remain in the public service or move into a different employment.

The department offers excellent employment conditions with competitive remuneration, superannuation and employee entitlements. Graduates commence at APS level 3.1 and will be advanced to APS level 4.1 following successful completion of the program. Information relating to salaries is set out in our Enterprise Agreement and Determination. Departmental staff have access to a wide range of allowances and many different forms of leave, also available in our Enterprise Agreement and Determination. A copy is available on our website.

For more information visit the DESE website or read the FAQs.