How do I apply?
Applications for our 2013 program will open 1 March 2012 and close 11.30pm, Sunday 29 April 2012. Applications must be submitted using our online recruitment system.
What is the starting salary?
Graduates have a starting salary of $52,327 (plus generous superannuation).
Where are the positions located?
All graduate positions are located in our central office in Canberra. Once you have completed the Graduate Program, if positions are available you may apply to work at any of our state and regional offices.
Which areas of the department can I work in?
We expect that graduates will be able to seek a work placement in any of our varied Divisions. Positions include working on policy or programs that support:
- Manufacturing
- Industry
- Small Business
- Innovation
- Science
- Research
- Tertiary Education
We also provide opportunities to work in our IT support, business services and finance teams.
What training is offered during the first year?
The first year of the Graduate Program is focused on giving graduates the skills and abilities required to be an effective officer in the Australian Public Service. You will learn a lot on the job in your three work placements, plus there are training blocks during the year to further develop your skills. These include workshops on teamwork, policy development, contract management, administrative law and presentation skills.
What development opportunities are available after the completion of the Graduate Program?
We encourage all staff to continue their professional and personal development. The department has a number of in-houses learning and development programs and initiatives to help employees gain specific skills. Leave and financial assistance is available if you wish to undertake a course of study.
How many steps are there in the selection process?
There are five steps in the application process:
- Online Applications for 2013 Graduate Program open on 1 March 2012 and close on 11.30pm, Sunday 29 April 2012.
- Candidates are shortlisted based on their suitability and are offered interviews.
- A selection panel of departmental staff will then travel around Australia to interview the shortlisted candidates.
- Candidates that are successful at the written application and interview stages will have their references contacted.
- Successful candidates will be offered a place on the Graduate Program.
Candidates who are unsuccessful will be notified via email. Feedback on your application will be given to unsuccessful candidates upon request.
When will the department be conducting interviews?
We expect to conduct interviews during June and July. Interviews will be held in most capital cities.
When will you be making offers to successful applicants?
We expect to begin making offers in August.
What kind of degrees does the department seek in their applicants?
The department is an extremely diverse organisation and graduates from all disciplines are welcome to apply. For the Graduate Program we are particularly interested in graduates with qualifications in Economics, Commerce, Public Policy, Law, Science, Business and Business Management.
In addition, the department also offers a limited number of opportunities for Graduate Accountants and Graduate Information & Communication Technology (ICT) specialists to work within those specific environments.
What kind of skills are you looking for?
As graduates work in many areas of the department, many of the skills required are transferable from one area to another. General skills such as communication, teamwork and analytical skills play an important role within each work environment.
Can I apply for the Graduate Program if I am not an Australian Citizen?
You can apply, however in order to be eligible to take up a graduate position within the department, you must be an Australian Citizen before the Graduate Program commences in early February 2013.
When does the Graduate Program commence?
The Graduate Program will commence in the second week of February 2013. You will be given a 2-day induction to introduce you to your graduate group and to the department and then, after some initial training, you will start work in your first placement.
What promotional opportunities are available to graduates beyond the Graduate Program?
At the successful completion of the program, graduates will be advanced to an APS4 position. You will then have the opportunity, through merit-based selection processes, to apply for available positions beyond that level.
Will the department help me to relocate to Canberra?
If you are coming from interstate, the department will pay for your relocation costs. We will also accommodate you in serviced apartments for up to 21 days while you find permanent accommodation.
I graduated a while ago, can I still apply for the Graduate Program?
Yes, you're welcome to apply no matter how long ago you completed your degree. The department recruits a diverse range of people for our Graduate Development Program and we value people who have work and life experience.
I obtained my qualification overseas, will it be recognised?
If your degree is from an overseas university it must be recognised by the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (NOOSR). If you have any questions in relation to your overseas qualification please contact NOOSR on 1300 636 079 or visit NOOSR's website at www.aei.gov.au.
How many graduates will you be taking in 2013?
The department generally employs around 40 graduates each year.
Do you have age limits for applicants?
There is no age limit for graduates. We recruit graduates on their capabilities rather than age and because of this we have graduates from a wide range of age groups.
Where can I get more information?
For more information on the Graduate Program, please email graduates@innovation.gov.au or phone 02 6213 6508 or 02 6213 6501.