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Eligibility criteria 

To be eligible for the Generalist Stream in the Australian Government Graduate Program (AGGP), you must:

  • Be an Australian citizen at the time of application
  • Hold or be completing a bachelor’s degree (or higher) by 31 December 2025
  • Have completed your degree between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2025
  • Be willing to undergo police, character, health, or other checks as required
  • Be able to get and maintain an Australian Government security clearance.

What skills do you need? 

To succeed in the Generalist Stream, you will have the following skills:

  • Analytical – Ability to assess complex situations, evaluate data and make informed decisions
  • Adaptability – Flexibility to thrive in different roles and work environments, and adjust to changing priorities
  • Communication – Strong written and verbal communication
  • Problem Solving – A creative and practical approach to identifying issues and developing solutions
  • Collaboration and teamwork – Able to work well with others and foster productive working relationships
  • Enthusiasm – Eager to work on things that make a positive impact and difference. 

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. Generalist graduates working in the Australian Government receive excellent benefits, including:

  • Full-time, ongoing employment
  • Flexible working arrangements
  • Competitive salary and superannuation
  • Structured learning and development with clear objectives
  • On-the-job learning, targeted training and professional development opportunities
  • Support from supervisors, buddies and mentors
  • Networking with other graduates to build professional relationships.

Locations

Most graduate positions are located in Canberra, with some opportunities available nationwide in major cities. Relocation assistance may be available for successful candidates.

What to expect in this program 

The Generalist Stream offers a challenging career in a flexible and fast-paced environment. We want you to be adaptable, positive and willing to learn and innovate. We are looking for high performing and motivated individuals with a genuine interest in working in government, and who are ready to apply their skills and knowledge to deliver meaningful outcomes and contribute to the Australian Public Service.

The Generalist Stream will give you a range of experiences, opportunities, networks and support designed to build your skills and prepare you for a diverse career. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Learning and development – Comprehensive training programs to develop and build your skills
  • Mentorship and support – Access to mentors, managers and peers to provide guidance, feedback and support through your journey
  • Diverse work experiences – Opportunities to work on important projects and engage in meaningful work where your contributions make a real difference
  • Structured career pathway – A clear work direction with potential for progression once graduate program is completed
  • Varied roles and responsibilities – You’ll likely rotate through a few roles to gain exposure to different functions, programs or projects.

Areas you can work in

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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. 

Application Process

1

Initial application

Submit your application online. We will assess your eligibility for the program and if deemed suitable, you will be shortlisted to proceed to the next stage.

2

Assessments

If shortlisted, you will complete online aptitude tests, and if you progress to the next stage, your written pitch is assessed. Successful candidates will participate in a one-way online video interview.

3

Matching

Suitable candidates are placed in the merit pool ready to be matched with a suitable government department or agency. Your qualifications, skills, experience and work location preferences are used to make sure you are perfectly matched and placed. Once matched, the department or agency will contact you to discuss.

4

Employment offers

If you are offered employment, the government department or agency will make you an offer, undertake pre-employment checks and complete your onboarding process.

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