Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders at Department of Home Affairs

Committed to empowering First Nations peoples through inclusivity, cultural celebration and meaningful opportunities to shape Australia’s future

Celebrating Culture, Building Futures

The Department of Home Affairs (the Department) Graduate Development Program is an opportunity for First Nations graduates to shape Australia’s future while building rewarding careers. This 10-month program is designed to nurture skills, celebrate culture, and support a professional journey in a workplace that values inclusivity, diversity, and cultural safety.

The Department is committed to providing a workplace where First Nations employees feel safe, respected, and valued. From cultural mentoring to First Nations staff support networks and ongoing cultural awareness programs, we ensure your identity and heritage are supported and celebrated.

Program Inclusions

Graduates are supported by the First Nations Graduates Program team, providing ongoing advice, support, and guidance to program participants and business areas throughout the journey.
Each graduate is allocated a mentor who is either:
- A First Nations leader; or
- An ally experienced in supporting First Nations employees.
Graduates receive culturally safe and sensitive training and development, leadership development opportunities, and networking events to build skills, confidence, and meaningful connections, empowering them to succeed in their careers.

This falls in line with the Department’s ongoing commitment to the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2023-26 and fostering strong relationships with First Nations people.

To contribute to reconciliation, the Department cultivates relationships that are built on respect, acceptance, understanding, and equal opportunities for all First Nations people. Allies assist in achieving this.

The Department plays an active role in implementing the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, which prioritises collaboration with First Nations communities. Closing the Gap is underpinned by the belief that when First Nations people have a genuine say in the design and delivery of policies, programs, and services that affect them, better life outcomes are achieved. It also recognises that structural change in the way governments work with First Nations people is needed to close the gap.

Wellbeing and Support

Your well-being is our priority. The program includes access to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Support Line which provides support from clinicians who identify as First Nations or have in-depth cultural awareness and experience supporting First Nations People. The service is free, confidential,l and available face-to-face or over the phone.

Be Part of Something Bigger

Join the Department of Home Affairs and take the first step toward a career where your voice and skills matter. Together, we can create a better future for all Australians while celebrating the strength and heritage of First Nations people.