Graduate Opportunities

The ten-month Department of Defence Graduate Program is a carefully managed period designed to introduce you to the diverse and unique nature of the Department of Defence. You will undertake three work rotations across the Department that will assist you in building the skills, knowledge and networks vital for a successful career with Defence and the wider public service. The majority of rotations are in Canberra although there may be opportunities for rotations in major regional centres. 

In each rotation you will have real tasks and responsibilities, and be fully integrated into the work team to ensure you contribute to your full potential. Rotations may include:

• working on directional, operational or strategic-level policy
• public affairs or event coordination
• assessing and analysing military intelligence and capabilities
• personnel planning and research
• involvement in high-level budgeting and submissions to Cabinet
• project management. 

You will also undertake a variety of professional and personal training and development modules over thecourse of the Graduate Program. Graduates also attend a week-long familiarisation tour of Defence establishments, providing an introduction to the operational side of Defence not usually experienced by the public. 

We believe that people generate results and we create a workplace where people are valued for their input.This, in turn, creates an environment that supports Australian Defence Force capability and the mission of the Department. 

“From supporting the warfighter on the ground to long-term strategic planning, throughout my graduate year I’ve met fascinating and inspiring people, travelled widely and developed professionally within supportive and dynamic work areas. If you want to work in a diverse, challenging and exciting environment, Defence is it!” -- Erin, 2009 Generalist Stream Graduate