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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, refer to our 2023–24 Corporate Plan.
About the 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, 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).
Eligibility
The graduate 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.
If you secure a place in our Graduate Program the department will guide you through the process of obtaining your Baseline security clearance as part of your onboarding process.
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 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: Full-time 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
The department participates in the Australian Government Graduate Program (AGGP), working collaboratively with other APS agencies to recruit talented individuals for our Graduate Program. You can find out more information about the streams we participate in and how to apply below:
- Generalist stream
- Accounting and Financial Management stream
- Data stream
- Economist stream
- Indigenous Graduate Pathway
- Legal stream
- Digital Stream
- HR stream
Visit the APS Jobs Career Pathways website for additional information.
Applications are now open for the 2025 Graduate Program.
Make a difference by creating a better future for all Australians through education. You have what it takes. Join us!
Contact us
If you have any questions on the Graduate Program or Entry Level Pathways at the Department of Education, please get in contact with the Recruitment Team.
Phone: 02 6240 6973
Email: recruitment@education.gov.au
