Job Description
Description
Detail
Position title:
2027 Graduate
Classification:
APS3 upon commencement
Employment Type:
Ongoing
Division:
Various
Branch/Section:
Various
Location:
We want to recruit the best people to our department. Our roles support flexible work arrangements including hybrid (mixture of office and home-based work).
The Graduate Development Program is completed in Canberra and the department provides comprehensive relocation assistance for successful applicants needing to relocate.
A merit pool will be formed and used to fill vacancies in the 2027 Graduate Program cohort following the first round of offers.
Security Clearance:
Baseline
Contact Officer:
Entry Level Programs – entrylevelprograms@infrastructure.gov.au
Closing Date and Time:
11:59pm – Monday, 27 April 2026
The opportunity we have available
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts (the department) is seeking motivated graduates to join our Graduate Development Program.
As a graduate in our department, you can get involved 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:
three work rotations across our diverse range of portfolios with the ability to nominate preferred placements for each rotation
commencement as an APS3 employee (from $72,133 plus 15.4% superannuation)
upon successful completion of rotations one and two, advancement to an APS4 (from $79,922 plus 15.4% superannuation)
upon successful completion of the rotation three and the program, advancement to an ongoing APS5 (from $89,225 plus 15.4% superannuation)
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 delivered across the program
being assigned a mentor for the duration of the program from the department’s SES cohort
access to our internal staff networks, including former graduates of the department
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.
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 for the program.
Hear from some of our former graduates about their experience in the program and the department.
What else can we offer?
It's important to us that our graduates feel supported and welcome in our department and, if you've just moved to Canberra, that you settle into your new city with ease. Being part of our graduate cohort gives you an immediate social network and is one of the many benefits of the program.
As a graduate with the department, you will also have:
A mentor—during the program, you will be matched with a senior executive who will provide advice, guidance, and support to enhance your career progression within the APS. Your mentor will help you to start building your network and be available through the entire program.
Former Graduate Buddy Network – you will have access to a network of former graduates during the program. A number of networking events will be organised throughout the year to engage with former graduates.
A dedicated Entry Level Programs (ELP) Team—the ELP team will guide and support you throughout the recruitment and relocation process. Once you commence, the ELP team will organise monthly meetings, training and development, and be your primary contact and support network throughout the year.
Your work team—you’ll have three rotations throughout the year and that means three different teams to get to know and work with. Your team supervisor will also support you in your day-to-day work.
Access to the department’s diversity networks - we value the diversity of our staff and are committed to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace where everyone feels supported and able to contribute. You will have access to our six staff-led networks:
Disability, Neurodiversity and Allies Network
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Network
First Nations Network
Gender Equality Network
Mental Health and Wellbeing Network
Pride and Allies Network
Eligibility requirements
Employment with the department is subject to conditions prescribed within the Public Service Act 1999 including:
Citizenship: candidates must be an Australian citizen at the time of submitting your application.
Health Assessment: The preferred candidates may be required to undergo a medical examination conducted by the department’s preferred medical provider.
Security Clearance: The successful candidate must be able to obtain and/or maintain a security clearance at Baseline Level. You must be willing to disclose all relevant and required information. You must have lived in Australia, or have a checkable background, for at least the preceding five years for Baseline Vetting clearances. More information on the security clearance vetting process is available on the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA) website.
Police check: The successful candidate must satisfactorily complete an Australian Federal Police criminal history check.
Integrity and Performance check: The successful candidate must satisfy the requirements of an Integrity and Performance check which is completed by your most recent employer.
Qualifications: candidates must have completed (at least) an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor Degree), equivalent, or higher equivalent by December 2026 with a credit grade average. Additionally, candidates must have completed their most recent degree no more than five years from the date of the application being submitted.
Suitability testing: Candidates may be required to undertake suitability testing as part of the recruitment process. Candidates will be informed in advance if/when suitability testing will be conducted.
RecruitAbility minimum requirements
The department is committed to supporting the employment and career development of people with disability. Our participation in APS RecruitAbility means we will progress an applicant with disability to a further stage in the recruitment process, where they opt into RecruitAbility and meet the minimum requirements for the vacancy.
You will be asked to indicate if you wish to opt into RecruitAbility in the application form. You must tick the 'opt in' box to participate in RecruitAbility. Simply declaring that you have a disability will not automatically include you.
We provide reasonable adjustments such as access, equipment or other practical support at relevant stages of the recruitment process. Please advise in the application form or the contact officer if you need any adjustments made.
The minimum requirements for this role include:
Ability to engage with stakeholders and colleagues in a professional and effective manner
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Ability to develop, interpret and apply policies and processes
By December 2026, have obtained an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 7 qualification (Bachelor degree) or higher, or an equivalent qualification, with a minimum credit average, and have obtained the qualification within the last five years.
More information can be found at RecruitAbility scheme: A guide for applicants | Australian Public Service Commission.
Timeline and assessment
Step 1: Apply online
The first stage of the application process is online. Allow yourself around one hour to complete the application process and submit by 11:30pm (AEDT) on the closing date to avoid any technical issues.
In addition to responding to the written task, you will require a copy of your current resume and academic transcript.
Written Motivational Question: You will be asked to respond to the below questions in 500 words. We want to learn about your motivation in applying for our Graduate Development Program and what skills you can bring to the department.
What has motivated you to apply for the Graduate Program at the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts?
Based on your skills and experience, how do you think you will be able to contribute to the work of the department?
Step 2: Video and written submissions
If you are successful in progressing to the next stage of the process, you will be asked to complete the following two online assessments:
Work Sample Task: You will be asked to provide written responses that demonstrate your competency in a work task typically assigned to a graduate in the department. This may be in the form of answering questions or preparing a summary on a piece of work completed by the department.
Online Video Questions: You will also be asked to record video responses to interview questions. This is your chance to showcase any research you have done into the department and outline the skills you have acquired in your working/university career. You will have the opportunity to test how the interview works with sample questions prior to responding to the actual questions.
You will need to submit your work sample task and video response within a set timeframe of receiving your invitation. You will be provided ample notice and the coordinating team will be available to discuss if you have any questions or concerns.
Step 3: Virtual Assessment Centre
After shortlisting is complete, you may be invited to attend our Virtual Assessment Centre (VAC). During the VAC, representatives of the department will be available to talk to you, whilst also assessing your suitability for the program. The VAC will run for approximately three hours and will involve:
a group exercise – in a small group with other candidates, you will work together to complete work sample projects and tasks.
an interview – a one-on-one interview with department employees.
Step 4: Referee Checks
The department, or its nominated recruitment service provider, may contact your two nominated referees to confirm your work experience and employment history.
Please make sure your referees are aware that they may be contacted.
Step 5: Offers
First-round offers will be made 2-3 weeks after the completion of the final session in the VAC.
A merit pool will be established for additional offers as vacancies arise from the first-round offer responses received. All unsuccessful candidates will be notified via email and will be able to request feedback.
How to Apply
Applications for our Graduate Development Program are open from 2 March 2026 and close at 11:59pm on 27 April 2026.
Click here to apply now!
Your application should be received through the department’s online recruitment system (using the link immediately above). Applications via Indeed will not be accepted.
If you experience any issues with the system please contact the recruitment team on 02 6136 8989 or via email at recruitment@infrastructure.gov.au to discuss an alternative way to submit your application.
If you have any initial questions or wish the clarify any information specific to the Graduate Development Program, please feel free to email entrylevelprograms@infrastructure.gov.au.
Please advise the contact officer if you require reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. The department is committed to the accessibility of our systems. If you identify as someone with disability and you require accessibility assistance or more information, please email DiversityandInclusion@infrastructure.gov.au
Detail
Position title:
2027 Graduate
Classification:
APS3 upon commencement
Employment Type:
Ongoing
Division:
Various
Branch/Section:
Various
Location:
We want to recruit the best people to our department. Our roles support flexible work arrangements including hybrid (mixture of office and home-based work).
The Graduate Development Program is completed in Canberra and the department provides comprehensive relocation assistance for successful applicants needing to relocate.
A merit pool will be formed and used to fill vacancies in the 2027 Graduate Program cohort following the first round of offers.
Security Clearance:
Baseline
Contact Officer:
Entry Level Programs – entrylevelprograms@infrastructure.gov.au
Closing Date and Time:
11:59pm – Monday, 27 April 2026
The opportunity we have available
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts (the department) is seeking motivated graduates to join our Graduate Development Program.
As a graduate in our department, you can get involved 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:
three work rotations across our diverse range of portfolios with the ability to nominate preferred placements for each rotation
commencement as an APS3 employee (from $72,133 plus 15.4% superannuation)
upon successful completion of rotations one and two, advancement to an APS4 (from $79,922 plus 15.4% superannuation)
upon successful completion of the rotation three and the program, advancement to an ongoing APS5 (from $89,225 plus 15.4% superannuation)
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 delivered across the program
being assigned a mentor for the duration of the program from the department’s SES cohort
access to our internal staff networks, including former graduates of the department
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.
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 for the program.
Hear from some of our former graduates about their experience in the program and the department.
What else can we offer?
It's important to us that our graduates feel supported and welcome in our department and, if you've just moved to Canberra, that you settle into your new city with ease. Being part of our graduate cohort gives you an immediate social network and is one of the many benefits of the program.
As a graduate with the department, you will also have:
A mentor—during the program, you will be matched with a senior executive who will provide advice, guidance, and support to enhance your career progression within the APS. Your mentor will help you to start building your network and be available through the entire program.
Former Graduate Buddy Network – you will have access to a network of former graduates during the program. A number of networking events will be organised throughout the year to engage with former graduates.
A dedicated Entry Level Programs (ELP) Team—the ELP team will guide and support you throughout the recruitment and relocation process. Once you commence, the ELP team will organise monthly meetings, training and development, and be your primary contact and support network throughout the year.
Your work team—you’ll have three rotations throughout the year and that means three different teams to get to know and work with. Your team supervisor will also support you in your day-to-day work.
Access to the department’s diversity networks - we value the diversity of our staff and are committed to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace where everyone feels supported and able to contribute. You will have access to our six staff-led networks:
Disability, Neurodiversity and Allies Network
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Network
First Nations Network
Gender Equality Network
Mental Health and Wellbeing Network
Pride and Allies Network
Eligibility requirements
Employment with the department is subject to conditions prescribed within the Public Service Act 1999 including:
Citizenship: candidates must be an Australian citizen at the time of submitting your application.
Health Assessment: The preferred candidates may be required to undergo a medical examination conducted by the department’s preferred medical provider.
Security Clearance: The successful candidate must be able to obtain and/or maintain a security clearance at Baseline Level. You must be willing to disclose all relevant and required information. You must have lived in Australia, or have a checkable background, for at least the preceding five years for Baseline Vetting clearances. More information on the security clearance vetting process is available on the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA) website.
Police check: The successful candidate must satisfactorily complete an Australian Federal Police criminal history check.
Integrity and Performance check: The successful candidate must satisfy the requirements of an Integrity and Performance check which is completed by your most recent employer.
Qualifications: candidates must have completed (at least) an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor Degree), equivalent, or higher equivalent by December 2026 with a credit grade average. Additionally, candidates must have completed their most recent degree no more than five years from the date of the application being submitted.
Suitability testing: Candidates may be required to undertake suitability testing as part of the recruitment process. Candidates will be informed in advance if/when suitability testing will be conducted.
RecruitAbility minimum requirements
The department is committed to supporting the employment and career development of people with disability. Our participation in APS RecruitAbility means we will progress an applicant with disability to a further stage in the recruitment process, where they opt into RecruitAbility and meet the minimum requirements for the vacancy.
You will be asked to indicate if you wish to opt into RecruitAbility in the application form. You must tick the 'opt in' box to participate in RecruitAbility. Simply declaring that you have a disability will not automatically include you.
We provide reasonable adjustments such as access, equipment or other practical support at relevant stages of the recruitment process. Please advise in the application form or the contact officer if you need any adjustments made.
The minimum requirements for this role include:
Ability to engage with stakeholders and colleagues in a professional and effective manner
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Ability to develop, interpret and apply policies and processes
By December 2026, have obtained an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 7 qualification (Bachelor degree) or higher, or an equivalent qualification, with a minimum credit average, and have obtained the qualification within the last five years.
More information can be found at RecruitAbility scheme: A guide for applicants | Australian Public Service Commission.
Timeline and assessment
Step 1: Apply online
The first stage of the application process is online. Allow yourself around one hour to complete the application process and submit by 11:30pm (AEDT) on the closing date to avoid any technical issues.
In addition to responding to the written task, you will require a copy of your current resume and academic transcript.
Written Motivational Question: You will be asked to respond to the below questions in 500 words. We want to learn about your motivation in applying for our Graduate Development Program and what skills you can bring to the department.
What has motivated you to apply for the Graduate Program at the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts?
Based on your skills and experience, how do you think you will be able to contribute to the work of the department?
Step 2: Video and written submissions
If you are successful in progressing to the next stage of the process, you will be asked to complete the following two online assessments:
Work Sample Task: You will be asked to provide written responses that demonstrate your competency in a work task typically assigned to a graduate in the department. This may be in the form of answering questions or preparing a summary on a piece of work completed by the department.
Online Video Questions: You will also be asked to record video responses to interview questions. This is your chance to showcase any research you have done into the department and outline the skills you have acquired in your working/university career. You will have the opportunity to test how the interview works with sample questions prior to responding to the actual questions.
You will need to submit your work sample task and video response within a set timeframe of receiving your invitation. You will be provided ample notice and the coordinating team will be available to discuss if you have any questions or concerns.
Step 3: Virtual Assessment Centre
After shortlisting is complete, you may be invited to attend our Virtual Assessment Centre (VAC). During the VAC, representatives of the department will be available to talk to you, whilst also assessing your suitability for the program. The VAC will run for approximately three hours and will involve:
a group exercise – in a small group with other candidates, you will work together to complete work sample projects and tasks.
an interview – a one-on-one interview with department employees.
Step 4: Referee Checks
The department, or its nominated recruitment service provider, may contact your two nominated referees to confirm your work experience and employment history.
Please make sure your referees are aware that they may be contacted.
Step 5: Offers
First-round offers will be made 2-3 weeks after the completion of the final session in the VAC.
A merit pool will be established for additional offers as vacancies arise from the first-round offer responses received. All unsuccessful candidates will be notified via email and will be able to request feedback.
How to Apply
Applications for our Graduate Development Program are open from 2 March 2026 and close at 11:59pm on 27 April 2026.
Click here to apply now!
Your application should be received through the department’s online recruitment system (using the link immediately above). Applications via Indeed will not be accepted.
If you experience any issues with the system please contact the recruitment team on 02 6136 8989 or via email at recruitment@infrastructure.gov.au to discuss an alternative way to submit your application.
If you have any initial questions or wish the clarify any information specific to the Graduate Development Program, please feel free to email entrylevelprograms@infrastructure.gov.au.
Please advise the contact officer if you require reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. The department is committed to the accessibility of our systems. If you identify as someone with disability and you require accessibility assistance or more information, please email DiversityandInclusion@infrastructure.gov.au
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The 2027 Graduate Development Program (GDP) - Generalist position is now open for candidates interested in the Government Job Alert sector. This role in Canberra offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Government Job Alert is a plus.