Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for any 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, or be completing by 31 December 2024, at least a Bachelor's degree or higher qualification.
- Your most recent eligible qualification must have been completed between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2024.
- Be able to obtain and maintain a valid Australian Government security clearance.
- Be willing to undergo any police, character, health, or other checks required.
What skills do you need?
To be suitable for a Generalist Stream role, you should have most or all of the following skills:
- Proficient written and verbal communication skills
- Social skills
- Problem-solving skills and sound judgement
- Willingness to learn
- Adaptability and resilience
Benefits
As a graduate in the Generalist Stream, you will gain valuable skills and experience by working alongside dedicated people who design, develop, and deliver policies, programs, and services for all Australians. Working with the Australian Government offers excellent benefits, including:
- Structured development with clear objectives
- On-the-job learning, targeted training, and professional development opportunities
- Work rotations across different departments
- Support from supervisors, buddies, and mentors
- Advancement to a higher classification or salary upon successfully completing the graduate year (in most cases)
Locations
Most positions are based in Canberra, but some departments also offer roles in other Australian cities. Relocation assistance may be available for successful candidates.
What to expect in this program
Managed by the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC), this Generalist Stream recruits a significant number of graduate roles across the Australian Government and Commonwealth agencies.
The Generalist streams on offer consists of:
- Two to three work rotations to experience different areas
- Formal targeted training and on-the-job learning opportunities
- Opportunities for stakeholder engagement
- Support from dedicated supervisors and mentors
- Contribution to important projects, analysis, and policy-making
Generalist Stream graduates can work in a variety of roles across different business areas, based on their academic background. These roles include:
- Policy development and analysis
- Project or program management
- Stakeholder engagement and relationship building
- Coordinating information requests and preparing reports
Areas you can work in
Diversity and inclusion
We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, LGBTQI+ individuals, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, and mature-aged applicants.
If applying under Affirmative Measures Disability, suitable evidence of a disability may be required only if you are found suitable for the role. This evidence does not need to specify the type of disability.
Application Process
Initial application
Submit your online application, including a 500-word pitch, resume, academic transcripts, and proof of Australian citizenship.
Assessment and interview
Shortlisted candidates will complete online testing (e.g., problem-solving, numerical reasoning) or participate in a video interview.
Assessment centre
Selected candidates will attend a virtual assessment centre, which may include activities like panel interviews, presentations, group activities, or written tasks.
Preferences and matching
Successful candidates will be placed in a merit pool, and a matching process will consider agency alignment and preferences. Reference checks may also be conducted.