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2026 Graduate Development Program - Affirmative Measures - First Nations

Job Req ID

Home Affairs - 137266

 

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.
 

AM Indigenous - The filling of this vacancy is intended to constitute an affirmative measure under section 8(1) of the 'Racial Discrimination Act 1975'. This vacancy is only available to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.

 

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 may be invited to complete an online capability assessment. This could measure Cognitive Aptitude, Personality or, Emotional Intelligence.

 

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 – 137266 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.

 

Evidence of heritage

 

Shortlisted applicants will be required to provide confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage.

 

A confirmation must stipulate that a person:

  • Is of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent; and
  • Identifies as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person; and
  • Is accepted as such by the community in which they live, or formerly lived.

 

Confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage can be provided by a wide range of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and bodies, and commonly include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Land Councils;
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporations can be incorporated under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006, the Corporations Act 2001, or other states and territory legislation);
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical services.

 

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:

 

 

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.

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