Eligibility criteria 

To be eligible for the Economist Stream in the Australian Government Graduate Program (AGGP), you must submit your application with evidence of the following: 

• Be an Australian citizen at the time of application.
• Have completed an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (bachelor degree), or higher equivalent.
• Relevant degrees include Economics, Economterics or any degree with a major or minor in Economics.
• Have completed your most recent degree between 1 January 2022 and 31 December 2026.
• Be willing to undergo police, character, health, or other checks as needed.
• Be able to obtain and maintain a valid Australian Government security clearance if required. For more information, refer to the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA).

Skills you need 

To be suitable for an Economist Stream Graduate role, you should have most or all of the following skills:

• Ability to analyse and interpret economic research and policy issues.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to understand Australian and international economic issues and changes in the economic environment.   

Benefits 

As a graduate with the Australian Government, you will work in a collaborative and professional environment that supports growth and public service commitment

Working with the Australian Government offers excellent benefits, including:

• A salary starting from $67,000 to $85,000, depending on placement agency.
• Generous superannuation contributions of 15.4%.
• Australian Public Service (APS) employment conditions.
• Access to standard APS leave entitlements.
• A workplace committed to inclusion and diversity.

Locations

Most positions are available in Canberra. A limited number of positions may be available in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth depending on the agency you are matched with.

Relocation assistance may be provided by placement agencies. 

What to expect in this program 

Managed by the Department of the Treasury, the Economist Stream is recruiting more than 30 graduate roles across the Australian Government and Commonwealth agencies. 

During this program, you can expect:  

• On-the-job learning and development.
• Support and mentorship
• Opportunity to connect and network with other graduates starting their APS career

Diversity and inclusion

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQI+ individuals, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities. 

We offer reasonable adjustments throughout the selection process. If you indicate on your application form that you require an adjustment, we will contact you to discuss your needs.