2026 Graduate Development Program
Job Req ID
Home Affairs - 137262
Location
ACT; NSW; NT; QLD; SA; TAS; VIC; WA
Employment Type
Ongoing (Permanent), Full-time
Classification
Graduate - $76,863.00 and $82,906.00 plus 15.4% super (part time pro-rata)
Contact Officer
Entry Programs Team at entry.programs@homeaffairs.gov.au
Office Arrangements
Flexible - Flexible working arrangements can be negotiated in accordance with our Enterprise Agreement and the operational requirements of the role.
Applications close on 28/04/2025 at 11:59pm AEDT (midnight) - Late applications will not be accepted.
About our opportunity
This process is being used to fill several positions.
Applicants suitable for the role but not offered the position for the current vacancy may be placed in a merit list or pool to fill similar vacancies for up to 18 months anywhere in ACT; NSW; NT; QLD; SA; TAS; VIC; WA.
About our team
Chief Operating Officer Group | People & Culture | People Operations Branch | Talent Awards and Relocation Service
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 programs. We also promote social cohesion through multicultural programs, settlement services and by managing and conferring citizenship.
Please visit our website for more information about the Department of Home Affairs or Australian Border Force
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.
Our Generalist Stream Graduate Program 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 program 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 program that values your unique perspective and empowers you to grow while making a meaningful impact, we want to hear from you.
For more information, visit Graduate Program
Duties and responsibilities
Our Graduate Program offers an exceptional pathway to launch your career in a dynamic and meaningful environment. With tailored rotations designed to align with your interests and skills, 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 program, 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.
Join us in Shaping Tomorrow Today!
How to apply
Submit your application and CV through the Home Affairs’ recruitment system (ourPeople) before the closing date on 28/04/2025 at 11:59pm (midnight) AEST – Late applications will not be accepted.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete an online capability assessment. This could measure Cognitive Aptitude, Personality or, Emotional Intelligence.
It is strongly encouraged that all potential candidates complete the following sample assessments to gain a clear understanding of the requirements:
For more information about Criteria aptitude testing including tips on how to prepare please visit https://www.criteriacorp.com.au/candidates/how-to-prepare.
To apply for the Department's Graduate Development Program, you are required to answer the following question during the application process:
- Why are you interested in being a graduate at the Department of Home Affairs?
As part of your application you will also need to provide:
- Your Applicant Response document
- Details of two referees
- Upload details of your qualifications, including your current academic transcript (1 attachment of up to 3MB) and your CV
- Include your full name and the Requisition Number in the footer of any documents being uploaded.
Please ensure you read the instructions carefully, noting failure to address identified requirements may lead to your application being deemed ineligible.
Applicant response documents must be a minimum 11pt font in MSWord or PDF format and maximum of 300 words, include your full name and the Requisition Number – 137262 in the document footer.
Prior to preparing your response it is recommended you review the Work Level standards relevant to the classification you are applying to. It may also be useful to refer to the Integrated Leadership Systems information relevant to the classification.
Eligibility
To be eligible, you must have completed at least an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor Degree) equivalent, or higher equivalent by 31 December 2025. Degrees obtained within the last 5 years and recognised by the Australian Qualifications Framework are eligible for the program.
If you obtained your degree overseas, you’ll need to have it recognised by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment.
To be eligible for the position you must be an Australian Citizen.
The successful candidate will be required to obtain and maintain a Negative Vetting Level 1 (AGSVA) security clearance, and:
- ABF Workers will also be required to obtain and maintain an Employment Suitability Clearance (ESC).
- Home Affairs Workers will also be required to obtain and maintain an Onboarding Check.
In certain circumstances, an Employment Suitability Clearance (ESC) may be required in addition to, or in lieu of, an Onboarding Check, which will be determined by the delegate as necessary.
Diversity and inclusion
The Department is committed to workforce diversity and applicants who are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, come from a diverse cultural or linguistic background or have a disability are encouraged to apply.
RecruitAbility applies to this vacancy. Under the RecruitAbility scheme you will be invited to participate in further assessment activity for the vacancy if you choose to apply under the scheme; declare you have a disability; and meet the minimum requirements for the job. For more information visit: https://www.apsc.gov.au/recruitability
Technical assistance
For technical enquiries please call or email for assistance:
- Email: recruitment@homeaffairs.gov.au
- Phone: 1300 793 883 (within Australia) or +61 2 6196 0444 (outside of Australia)
Please include any applicable screen captures, a response will be provided during business hours.
Notes
The Department of Home Affairs offers an attractive remuneration package, including salary, superannuation benefits and flexible working conditions appropriate to the level of the position. The Australian Public Service (APS) Employee Value Proposition (EVP) highlights the top reasons our employees enjoy working in the APS.
The Department may provide relocation assistance to eligible APS employees required to relocate. The level of assistance will vary depending on the reason for relocating and your personal circumstances. For further information please enquire with the contact officer listed in the advertisement.
Information about employment and advice on how to apply for vacancies can be obtained from the Department’s website at https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/about-us/careers
Candidates should be aware that in roles where vaccination against COVID-19 is required by public health orders/directions or other legislation proof of vaccination will be required. If a candidate is not fully vaccinated or is unwilling to be vaccinated within a reasonable time period, they may not be offered that role.