2027 Graduate Development Program

Applications now open

Applications for our 2027 Graduate Development Program are open from 2 March 2026 and close at 11:59pm on 27 April 2026.

Visit the Graduate Development Program job opportunity page to apply now!

Our Program

We are seeking motivated graduates to join our Graduate Development Program.

As a graduate in our department, you can get involved in planning the transport and telecommunications systems of tomorrow, designing livable future-facing cities, or preparing for the global digital economy. You can also help empower our regional communities, promote our thriving arts sector, or protect and celebrate the culture, heritage and languages of First Nations people.

The program is designed to enhance the skills you acquired at university and introduce you to working in the Australian Public Service (APS). You will develop professional public sector skills through a combination of work rotations, internal training and formal learning and development. The program provides a unique 11 month accelerated career progression, with salary increases and advancement from the APS Level 3 to APS Level 5 on successful completion.

Key elements of our Graduate Program include:

3 work rotations across our diverse range of portfolios with the ability to nominate preferred placements for each rotation
Salary on commencement of $72,133 plus 15.4% superannuation (as an APS3 employee)
upon successful completion of rotations one and 2, advancement to a salary starting at $79,922 plus 15.4% superannuation (as an APS4 employee)
upon successful completion of the program, advancement to a salary starting at $89,225 plus 15.4% superannuation (as an ongoing APS5 employee)
the ability to nominate preferred teams from the positions available for ongoing APS5 positions
comprehensive relocation assistance for successful candidates to move to Canberra
a structured learning and development program
being assigned a senior executive mentor for the duration of the program
access to our internal staff networks, including a network of former graduates of the department.

Listed salaries are as at 13 March 2026.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for innovative, curious, future-focused graduates with a desire to learn and help shape Australia's infrastructure, transport, regional development, communications, sport and creative industries.

Successful applicants will demonstrate they are motivated to explore opportunities and exemplify drive and adaptability. They are responsive and comfortable with change. As a graduate in our program, you will thrive on being challenged in a flexible and fast-paced environment. Above all else, you will have a positive attitude and a desire to learn.

With opportunities to apply your skills across a uniquely diverse portfolio, you can find your purpose and discover rewarding opportunities that enrich and connect the lives of all Australians.

We are looking for graduates who aren't afraid to do things differently and create an impact—those who want to make a difference and are bold enough to take the lead. If you have a strong vision for Australia's future and are seeking a career where you can make a real difference in the lives of all Australians, we encourage you to apply to the program.

Eligibility

To be eligible for our Graduate Development Program, you must submit a completed application before the closing date and time, and:

be an Australian citizen by October 2026
have completed (at least) an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor Degree), equivalent, or higher equivalent by January 2027
have completed the most recent degree no more than 5 years from the date of the application being submitted
have a credit rating average
be able to obtain and maintain a valid Australian Government security clearance once accepted into the program
be willing to undergo police, character, health or other checks as required
be willing to relocate to Canberra.

If you require reasonable adjustments to be made to the assessment process please note this in your application and we will contact you to discuss any additional support that will assist you throughout the assessment process.

Assessment Timeline

Step 1: Apply online by providing a written response to a motivational question
Step 2: Work sample task involving a video response to questions and a written submission
Step 3: Virtual assessment centres
Step 4: Referee checks
Step 5: Offers made

Australian Government Graduate Program

We are also a participating agency in the Generalist, Accounting & Financial Management, Data, and Economist Australian Government Graduate Program streams. Applying for these streams means you only have to go through the application and selection process once to be considered for a range of Australian Government agencies.

Wherever you start your public service career as a graduate, you'll be doing meaningful work from day one, be asked to contribute, be recognised for your perspective and see the impact you can make in the Australian community we serve.

For more information on the program and applying, visit the APS Jobs Graduate Portal.

Indigenous Graduate Pathway Program

We also participate in the Indigenous Graduate Pathway Program which is available to all First Nations peoples. Eligible applicants will be able to complete one application and be considered for multiple agencies and departments within the Australian Public Service (APS).

For more information on application deadlines and how to apply visit the Indigenous Graduate Pathway Program website.