Graduate Development Program (Feb 2026)

About the organisation

The Department of Home Affairs is responsible for central coordination, and strategy and policy leadership in relation to:

• cyber and critical infrastructure resilience and security
• immigration
• border security and management
• counter-terrorism
• the protection of our sovereignty
• citizenship and social cohesion.

We implement a strategically coordinated approach to the cyber security and resilience of all Australians. We enable rapid responses to threats of foreign interference. Additionally, we contribute to Australia’s prosperity and unity through the management and delivery of the migration, humanitarian and refugee programs. We also promote social cohesion through multicultural programs, settlement services and by managing and conferring citizenship.   

About the role:

Our Graduate Program offers an exceptional pathway to launch your career in a dynamic and meaningful environment. The 10 month program includes three rotations and is designed to align with your interests and skills and you’ll gain hands-on experience across diverse areas of the Department. 

The program includes vocational learning opportunities to build your professional expertise, personalised coaching to support your development, and human-centered support to ensure you thrive. Graduates will benefit from a comprehensive induction program, networking events to foster connections, and opportunities to engage with leadership, offering valuable insights and mentorship. 

Join us to be part of a program that invests in your growth and prepares you for a rewarding and impactful career!

Our graduate positions are offered in all Australian capital cities. Applicants have the flexibility to express their preferred location during the application process.

Note: If you are found suitable, but not offered a graduate position, you may be placed in a merit pool. The merit pool may be used to fill non-graduate (similar vacancy) positions in various locations across the Department.

We offer you:

• Access to flexible working arrangements
• Supportive and diverse culture
• Comprehensive training to build foundational knowledge and skills
• Vocational learning opportunities
• A graduate-specific induction program designed to help you succeed
• Access to on-the-job coaching
• Ongoing employment pathways for long-term career development across a wide range of roles
• Rotation opportunities across the Department of Home Affairs and/or Australian Border Force
• Dedicated support from mentors, buddies, stream leaders and champions as well as the Entry Programs team
• Relocation assistance 

Our ideal candidate:

We’re looking for passionate, curious, and driven individuals who are ready to make a real difference through their work. To thrive in our Graduate Program, you’ll need strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent communication and collaboration abilities, and a commitment to continuous learning. 

Whether you bring expertise in cyber security, public policy, business, social science, the arts, or any of the other fields we value, we’re seeking individuals with diverse perspectives, innovative thinking, and a desire to contribute to the common good.

We’re also committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the Australian community. We encourage applications from people of all cultural backgrounds, races, ethnicities, abilities, ages, genders, and sexual orientations. 

By fostering an inclusive environment, we ensure that our graduates bring a rich variety of perspectives to their work, enabling us to better serve and respond to the needs of the diverse communities we support. If you’re looking for a program that values your unique perspective and empowers you to grow while making a meaningful impact, we want to hear from you.

Role requirements/qualifications:

You are welcome to apply for our Graduate Development Program if you:

• Are an Australian citizen or will be by 18 March 2025
• Have completed at least an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor Degree) equivalent, or higher equivalent by 31 December 2025. Degrees obtained within the last 5 years and recognised by the Australian Qualifications Framework are eligible for the program.
• Can obtain and maintain an Employment Suitability Clearance or an onboarding check as applicable. We encourage you to complete the Employment Suitability Self-Assessment.
• Obtain and maintain an Australian Government Security Vetting Agency clearance at the Negative Vetting 1 level.
• Fulfil the Department’s minimum requirements by satisfactorily answering all screening questions during the application process