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At the Department of Education, our goal is to create a better future for all Australians through education.
By supporting a strong early childhood education system, we help children prepare for school and families re-engage with work. Through education and learning, we change lives – opening a world of possibilities for children and young people.
We provide advice to our Ministers and lead the implementation of Government policies and programs to build a strong education system. We draw on the best available research, evidence and data and work collaboratively with industry, stakeholders and state and territory governments.
As an organisation of approximately 1,600 staff, we pride ourselves on our positive, supportive and inclusive workplace culture that nurtures talent and encourages employees to achieve their full potential.
To learn more about our role, refer to our 2024–25 Corporate Plan.
About the Graduate Program
The department participates in the Australian Government Graduate Program (AGGP), working collaboratively with other APS agencies to recruit talented individuals for our Graduate Program.
Our Graduate Program is a great way for you to transition from education to employment and begin your leadership career. As an Education Graduate, you will be provided with varied and challenging work supported by formal learning and development opportunities, on the job training and mentoring. Our graduate program connects you to friendly, experienced professionals who will help you apply your skills and knowledge as you build your career.
Successfully completing our graduate program will help you apply your skills in new ways while building a strong foundation for a fulfilling career at the department or across the Australian Public Service (APS).
Why join us
- Career progression: Start as an APS Level 3 and progress to APS Level 5 on successful completion of the program. Refer to the Australian Public Service Commission for more information on APS levels.
- Salary increase: Start at $75,419 (plus 15.4% superannuation) and progress to $90,580 (plus 15.4% superannuation) upon successful completion of the program.
- Placements: Full-time 10-month program (Feb-Dec), involving two 5-month work placements, allowing you to work on a variety of priority policies, programs or projects.
- Learning and Development: Experience on the job training, supported by a range of formal learning and development opportunities.
- Buddy Program: We will match you up with a ‘buddy’ from the previous year’s graduate program, who can support and guide you by sharing their experience and insights.
- Location options: Majority of positions are located in Canberra, with some opportunities available interstate. Relocation assistance is provided to candidates who relocate to Canberra.
- Employee Networks: Help contribute to a positive and inclusive workplace culture by joining our Employee Networks.
- Community: Participate in Social Club and Graduate Fundraising activities to connect with colleagues at every level.
Eligibility
To be eligible to apply through the Australian Government Graduate Program, applicants must submit a completed application prior to the closing date and time and provide evidence of the or confirmation of the following:
- be an Australian citizen at the time of application
- will or have completed at least an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor degree), or higher equivalent by 31 December 2025
- your most recent eligible qualification has or will be completed between 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2025
- be able to obtain and maintain a valid Australian Government baseline security clearance once accepted onto the program
- be willing to undergo any police, character, health or other checks required.
If you secure a place in our Graduate Program the department will guide you through the process of obtaining your Baseline security clearance as part of your onboarding process.
How to apply
Applications for the 2026 Australian Government Graduate Program (AGGP) will open in March 2025, but we offer an Expression of Interest Register allowing you to share your interest in the meantime. When you express your interest we'll keep in touch, so you know when you can apply and what opportunities we offer.
Complete the expression of interest for our exciting and rewarding Graduate Program!
You can find out more information about the AGGP streams we participate in and how to apply below:
- Generalist stream
- Accounting and Financial Management stream
- Data stream
- Economist stream
- Indigenous Graduate Pathway
- Legal stream
- Digital Stream
- HR stream
Applications for the AGGP are open between March – April each year.
Please visit the APS Jobs Career Pathways website for additional information.
Make a difference by creating a better future for all Australians through education. You have what it takes. Join us!
Contact us
If you have any questions on the Graduate Program or Entry Level Pathways at the Department of Education, please get in contact with the Recruitment Team.
Phone: 02 6240 6973
Email: recruitment@education.gov.au
