Graduate Program (Economist Stream) null

At the Department of Education, our goal is to create a better future for all Australians through education.

By supporting a strong early childhood education system, we help children prepare for school and families re-engage with work. Through education and learning, we change lives – opening a world of possibilities for children and young people.

We provide advice to our Ministers and lead the implementation of Government policies and programs to build a strong education system. We draw on the best available research, evidence and data and work collaboratively with industry, stakeholders and state and territory governments.

As an organisation of approximately 1,600 staff, we pride ourselves on our positive, supportive and inclusive workplace culture (https://www.education.gov.au/about-department/work-us/life-education) that nurtures talent and encourages employees to achieve their full potential.

To learn more about our department, including our key priorities, refer to our 2024-25 Corporate Plan (https://www.education.gov.au/about-department/resources/202425-corporate-plan-department-education).

Make a difference! Join our graduate program.

We are looking for graduates from all degree disciplines to help us deliver Australian Government priorities across the education sector.

The Department participates in the Australian Government Graduate Program (AGGP - https://www.apsjobs.gov.au/s/graduate-portal), working collaboratively with other APS agencies to recruit talented individuals for our Graduate Program. If you’re interested in empowering people to achieve their potential through education— preference Education and get your career startED with us! 

Our graduate program is a great way for you to transition from education to employment. We know firsthand the significance of this milestone and you’ll find our graduate program connects you to friendly, experienced professionals who will help you apply your skills and knowledge as you start your career in the Australian Public Service (APS). As an Education Graduate, you will be provided with varied and challenging work supported by formal learning and development opportunities, on the job training and mentoring.

Successfully completing our graduate program will help you apply your skills in new ways while building a strong foundation for a fulfilling career at the department or across the Australian Public Service (APS).

Why join us

• Career progression: Start as an APS Level 3 and progress to APS Level 5 on successful completion of the program. Refer to the Australian Public Service Commission website for more information on APS levels.
• Salary increase: Start at $75,419 (plus 15.4% superannuation) and progress to $90,580 (plus 15.4% superannuation) upon successful completion of the program.
• Placements: Full-time 10-month program, involving two 5-month work placements, allowing you to work on a variety of priority policies, programs or projects.
• Learning and Development: Experience on-the-job training, supported by a range of formal learning and development opportunities.
• Buddy Program: We will match you up with a ‘buddy’ from the previous year’s graduate program, who can support and guide you by sharing their experience and insights.
• Location options: The majority of positions are located in Canberra with some opportunities available interstate. Relocation assistance is provided to candidates who relocate to Canberra.
• Employee Networks: Help contribute to a positive and inclusive workplace culture by joining our Employee Networks.
• Community: Participate in Social Club and Graduate Fundraising activities to connect with colleagues at every level.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply through the AGGP, applicants must submit a completed application prior to the closing date and time and provide evidence of or confirmation of the following:

• be an Australian citizen at the time of application
• will or have completed at least an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor's degree), or higher equivalent by 31 December 2025
• your most recent eligible qualification has or will be completed between 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2025
• be able to obtain and maintain a valid Australian Government baseline security clearance once accepted onto the program
• be willing to undergo any police, character, health or other checks required.

If you secure a place in our Graduate Program the department will guide you through the process of obtaining your Baseline security clearance as part of your onboarding process.

How to apply

The Department of Education participates in the following AGGP streams. You can apply for one or many of the streams below to be considered for a role with us. 

• Generalist
• Data
• Economist
• Legal
• Indigenous Graduate Program
• Finance and Accounting
• Digital
• HR

Visit our website (https://www.education.gov.au/graduate-and-entry-level-programs/graduate-program) to read more about what we can offer you as a 2026 Education Graduate.

Applications for the 2026 Australian Government Graduate Program will open in March 2025, but we offer an Expression of Interest Register allowing you to share your interest in the meantime. When you express your interest we'll keep in touch, so you know when you can apply and what opportunities we offer.

Complete the expression of interest for our exciting and rewarding Graduate Program!  Click "Pre-register" now!

Make a difference by creating a better future for all Australians through education. You have what it takes. Join us!