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- Tasks: Ignite your career and make a real impact in the Australian Public Service.
- Company: Join the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, dedicated to supporting Australians.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, superannuation, professional development, and flexible working environment.
- Why this job: Contribute to meaningful work while building skills for a fulfilling career.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree or higher, strong analytical skills, and a passion for making a difference.
- Other info: 10-month graduate programme with diverse placements and supportive networks.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Our Department supports people in Australia to have safe, secure and well‑paid work with the skills for a sustainable future. We seek to attract curious, enthusiastic, and motivated people who are passionate and want to make a difference to the lives of all Australians.
APS Level 4 All locations considered $84,828 + 15.4% Superannuation
Our Program ignites your career and turns your studies into real‑world impact through a programme designed to grow your professional future. At the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR), you’ll find our graduate programme connects you to friendly, experienced professionals who will help you apply your skills and knowledge as you start your career. Most importantly, you will contribute to work that makes a difference while building your own skills and knowledge for a fulfilling career in the Australian Public Service (APS). The department offers a 10‑month graduate programme, from February to December each year.
What We Offer
- An ongoing, full‑time position commencing at an APS4.1 with a starting salary of $84,828 + 15.4% Superannuation and the opportunity to advance to an APS5.1 based on successful completion of the programme.
- On‑the‑job experience, including the opportunity to work and learn from subject matter experts.
- Two diverse work placements which provide the opportunity to work on a variety of programmes and policies developed and implemented by the department.
- A formal learning and development programme designed to equip you with core foundational skills.
- Opportunities to be involved in a wide range of networks, social events and activities.
- A unique buddy programme that fosters supportive connections and a smooth transition into the department.
- A supportive, inclusive, and flexible working environment.
- A generous relocation assistance package for graduates moving to Canberra.
- Excellent employment conditions with competitive remuneration, superannuation, and employee entitlements.
What Are We Looking For?
- Demonstrate curiosity and intellectual agility.
- Bring strong analytical capability and a genuine interest in tackling complex challenges.
- Communicate with clarity and confidence and build strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
- Show adaptability, initiative and professionalism in dynamic and evolving environments.
- Uphold integrity, accountability and APS values in everything they do.
- Pursue growth opportunities and take ownership of their development and performance.
Eligibility Requirements
- Be an Australian Citizen at the time of application.
- Have successfully completed a Bachelor degree or higher within five years prior to the start date of the Graduate Programme and provide evidence of completion before the start of the programme.
- Obtain and maintain a valid Australian Government Baseline security clearance.
- Relocate to Canberra for the commencement of the programme if the position requires you to.
- Satisfy the relevant medical checks (if required for the position).
If your only qualification is from an overseas institution, you will need to provide Australian documentation recognising your qualification(s). Refer to the Department of Education for more information about recognition of overseas qualifications.
How To Apply
We work collaboratively with other APS agencies to recruit talented individuals through other speciality graduate and entry‑level programmes. These speciality programmes are co‑ordinated centrally by the Australian Government Graduate Programme (AGGP). To apply for your stream(s) of choice, please click on the stream below to submit your application.
- Accounting and Financial Management Stream
- Data Stream
- Digital Stream
- Generalist Stream
- Human Resource Stream
- Legal Stream
- Economist Stream
- STEM Stream
- Indigenous Graduate Stream
Applying to one of these speciality streams means you only have to go through the application and selection process for your selected speciality stream once to be considered for a range of Australian Government agencies. Make sure you nominate the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations as your preferred agency for your chance to join us! New and recent graduates with Higher Education (university) qualifications are encouraged to apply.
Closing Dates
The Generalist, Data, and Digital streams will close on 31 March 2026. The Economist stream will close on 07 April 2026. All remaining streams will close on 13 April 2026.
For more information about our programme, please contact entrylevel@dewr.gov.au.
2027 DEWR Graduate Program employer: Department of Employment and Workplace Relations
Contact Detail:
Department of Employment and Workplace Relations Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2027 DEWR Graduate Program
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past graduates of the DEWR programme on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for you. Building connections can give you insider knowledge and make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to the APS values. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence. The more you practise, the more natural you'll feel when it’s your turn to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for making a difference! In your conversations and interviews, highlight how your skills align with the department's mission. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about contributing to the lives of Australians.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the programme and what we’re looking for in candidates like you.
We think you need these skills to ace 2027 DEWR Graduate Program
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm shine through! We want to see how passionate you are about making a difference in the lives of Australians. Share your experiences and what drives you to apply for the DEWR Graduate Program.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We’re looking for curious and motivated individuals, so connect your background to the department's purpose and values. It’ll make your application stand out!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that communicate your ideas effectively. Avoid jargon and focus on showcasing your analytical capabilities and adaptability in a straightforward manner.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the information you need about the different streams and requirements right there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Department of Employment and Workplace Relations
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. Understand their mission, values, and recent initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you connect your skills to their goals.
✨Show Your Curiosity
Demonstrate your curiosity and intellectual agility by preparing thoughtful questions about the graduate programme and the department's work. This shows you're engaged and eager to learn, which is exactly what they’re looking for!
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Use examples from your studies or experiences that highlight your analytical skills and adaptability. Remember, strong communication is key in building relationships with diverse stakeholders.
✨Embrace the Challenge
Be ready to discuss how you've tackled complex challenges in the past. Share specific instances where you took initiative and demonstrated professionalism. This aligns perfectly with their desire for candidates who can handle dynamic environments.