Public service career when you are in University
Data or digital cadetship
The ICT Cadetship or Data or Digital Cadetship is an opportunity for university students in Australia to gain real-world experience in information and communications technology while completing the degrees. The Australian Public Service Commission has created a Pilot Program in partnership with the University of Newcastle and James Cook University to bring more data and digital skills to the APS.
Eligibility:
•Must be an Australian citizen
•Completed at least one year of a relevant undergraduate degree (e.g., computer science, IT, software engineering)
•Have at least 12 months of study remaining
Work-Study Balance:
•Part-time work (usually 2+ days/week) while studying
•Flexible hours to accommodate university schedules
Fields You Might Work In:
•Cybersecurity
•Software development
•Data analytics
•Network engineering
•Digital service design
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Graduate program
The Australian Government Graduate Program offers diverse job opportunities for graduates across various disciplines, with applications for the 2026 program now open.
Overview of the Program
The Australian Government Graduate Program is designed to attract talented graduates to work in the Australian Government across multiple departments and agencies. Participants can apply to various specialty streams, including Generalist, Data, Digital, Legal, Human Resources, Economist, Finance and Accounting, and STEM. This program allows graduates to be considered for roles in multiple agencies with a single application.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the AGGP, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Be an Australian citizen.
- Have completed or be in the process of completing a degree within the last five years.
- Be willing to undergo necessary checks, such as police and health assessments.
Program Structure
- Duration: The program typically lasts for 12 months, during which graduates complete two placements, gaining hands-on experience and training.
- Roles and Responsibilities: Graduates can work in various roles, contributing to significant projects and policies that impact the Australian community. For example, HR graduates may focus on recruitment and policy, while STEM graduates can engage in innovative projects across multiple fields.
Benefits of the Program
- Career Development: Participants receive support and training to enhance their professional skills, with opportunities for networking and collaboration across government sectors.
- Salary and Benefits: Graduates start at an APS 3 or 4 level with a competitive salary, which increases upon successful completion of the program.
- Relocation Assistance: For those moving to Canberra, reasonable relocation assistance is provided, including temporary accommodation and moving costs.
Application Process
Applications for the AGGP are currently open for the 2026 intake.
This program is an excellent opportunity for graduates looking to make a meaningful impact in public service while developing their careers in a supportive environment.