We were established on 1 July 2022 to deliver on the Australian Government’s climate change and energy agenda and to protect Australia’s environment and water resources.
We deliver policies and programs to:
We are informed by science. We are innovative and collaborative. We look to the future.
Our work is diverse and far reaching.
We work across the breadth of our vast and valuable resources. On the land and water and in towns and cities. We:
The Graduate Development Program is a pathway for graduates into our department. The 12-month program is designed to develop your skills, capabilities and knowledge and set you up for a successful career in the Australian Public Service.
As a graduate, you will work on some of the most important issues we are facing in Australia. Whether you are tackling climate change, advancing renewable energy, protecting our environment and national parks or securing Australia’s water resources, your work will be unique and impactful.
Our program is a great opportunity for you to put your qualification, skills and ideas into practice.
You will join a diverse workforce of passionate and experienced professionals who will guide you and support your development throughout and beyond the program.
Almost every discipline! Some of our current graduates have qualifications in:
During the 12-month program, you will be provided with:
You will learn new skills, work in a collaborative environment and be part of an experienced and motivated team. No matter your interest, out Graduate Development Program will prepare you for a rich and rewarding career.
We pride ourselves on our positive, supportive and inclusive workplace culture that nurtures talent and encourages employees to achieve their full potential. We welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, mature age people, people from diverse backgrounds and people with disability.
Upon successful completion of the program, you will have a permanent role that is relevant to your skills, qualifications and interests.
Due to the broad range of roles and responsibilities across our department, we have extensive career pathways in fields including policy development, program management, project management, research, compliance and regulation, operations and service delivery.
Our 2024 Graduate Development Program will commence in February 2024.
We also participate in the Australian Government Graduate Program Streams including:
Virtual Assessment Centres will take place between May and June. Reasonable adjustments are available to candidates who are invited to participate in a Virtual Assessment Centre.
We invest in our graduates and will provide you the opportunities, tools and support network for you to achieve great things.
Our Graduate Development Program is not too big or small. We ensure graduates can connect easily with one another and forge strong relationships across the graduate cohort. As a valued employee, you will receive tailored support and opportunities. We are committed to the growth of our most important resource – you.
Our program provides a number of benefits to graduates including:
Career Progression: With nearly 4000 positions in our department, you will have access to extensive career progression opportunities. Graduates start as an APS Level 3 and are eligible to progress to an APS Level 5 on successful completion of the program. Refer to the Australian Public Service Commission website for more information on APS levels.
Competitive Remuneration Package: Your starting salary is $71,444 per annum plus 15.4% superannuation contributions. Graduates are eligible for salary/level advancement during the program following an assessment of work performance. On successful completion of the program, graduates will receive a salary/level advancement based on performance, assessment of skills and availability of work.
Exposure: Learn from experts through on-the-job training and activities. You will also meet with our senior executive throughout the program.
Support: You will be supported by a dedicated Graduate Team prior to and during the program.
Buddy Program: You will be paired with a buddy from the previous year’s graduate cohort who will support you and share their experiences and insights.
Relocation Assistance: If moving from interstate, you will receive a comprehensive relocation assistance package.
Flexibility: You will have access to a number of flexible work practices and receive excellent work conditions that promote work/life balance.
Employee Diversity Networks: Help contribute to a positive and inclusive workplace culture by joining one or more of our six Employee Diversity Networks.
Community: Participate in Social Club activities and events to connect with colleagues across the department.