Government Graduate Jobs & Programs in Australia (168 open now!)

Government graduate programs have a number of advantages, and the training and opportunities provided are usually of a high class. Also, since the government hires more employees than any other entity in Australia, government graduate jobs will see you well placed for ongoing employment.

How to Find and Apply for Government Graduate Jobs

In Australia, there are 3 levels of government: federal, state and local. The Australian Government offers graduate employment programs, sometimes called an 'entry level professional program'. These are advertised in February/March and June each year with closing dates in around April and August. Click the link above to check out the various federal government graduate jobs available. It is very important to read the process and requirements carefully.

Each state or territory government will have their own graduate employment program. Follow the links in the section below to find the relevant page for each state or territory:

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• Queensland
• South Australia
• Tasmania
• Victoria
• Western Australia

Local government in capital cities usually have annual (or twice yearly) graduate employment programs but regional and rural local governments are less likely to have regular opportunities. To see if there is a local government graduate program, search for the council of the city you wish to consider.

Competitiveness

Competition for graduate roles is fairly high but it is important to note that grades are not the only factor considered.

Location of Government Graduate Jobs

Graduate positions are mostly found within capital cities but as more general government jobs are available throughout Australia, opportunities to transfer once the graduate program is completed are high. Canberra has many opportunities to consider too for the Federal departments.

Average Graduate Salaries

The starting salary will depend on the program and occupation. Salaries typically range from approximately $48 to $60k.