The 2027 Graduate Development Program combines learning with hands-on experience. You’ll rotate across diverse teams in Home Affairs, work on operational, policy or project tasks, contribute to decisions that affect people and communities, and build your capability with mentoring and structured vocational learning. It’s a year-long program that starts at APS4 level and offers a pathway to APS5 on successful completion.
| Job Title | 2027 Graduate Development Program |
| Vacancy Number | VN-0768451 |
| Position Number | JR 141290 |
| Classification | APS Level 4 |
| Salary | AU$79,476 – AU$86,246 per annum |
| Job Type | Full-Time, Ongoing |
| Primary Locations | Various locations – NT; Various locations – ACT; ACT; Various locations – NSW; Various locations – QLD; Various locations – SA; Various locations – TAS; Various locations – VIC; Various locations – WA |
| Future Merit Locations | Various locations – ACT; Various locations – NSW; Various locations – VIC; Various locations – WA; Various locations – QLD; Various locations – TAS; Various locations – NT; Various locations – SA |
| Office Arrangement | Flexible |
| Office Arrangement Details | Flexible working arrangements can be negotiated in accordance with our Enterprise Agreement and the operational requirements of the role. |
| Closing Date | Tuesday 12 May 2026 |
| Agency Website | www.homeaffairs.gov.au |
About the Opportunity
The 2027 GDP offers more than a job; it’s your chance to shape tomorrow. You’ll help deliver priority government work across border protection, migration, citizenship and community safety while being supported by mentors and structured learning. The program is designed to build capacity and confidence, helping you discover where you thrive and what kind of career you want to pursue within the APS.
You’ll rotate through three placements over ten months, doing real work from day one. If you’re curious, motivated and driven by purpose, this program could be the start of a meaningful career in public service. The culture values inclusivity, collaboration and fresh ideas, with plenty of opportunities to network with professionals across the Department.
Duties (What You Will Do)
| • | Support the delivery of government priorities through operational, policy, program or project work |
| • | Assist with research, analysis and information gathering to inform decisions |
| • | Prepare briefings, reports and written material for a range of audiences |
| • | Engage with stakeholders and collaborate with colleagues across teams and functions |
| • | Contribute to continuous improvement and day-to-day team activities |
| • | Receive mentoring and guidance to build confidence and capability |
About You (Eligibility)
- Australian citizen
- Completed Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (Bachelor) or higher by 31 December 2026
- Ability to obtain and maintain required security clearances (AGSVA Negative Vetting 1, and Employment Suitability Clearance as applicable)
- Open to graduates from diverse disciplines with a readiness to learn and contribute
- Strong communication and collaborative skills; comfortable with feedback
Important Information for Applicants
jobs in australia for foreigners is a phrase to note in context. This program requires Australian citizenship and security clearance. Please review eligibility carefully; overseas degrees must be recognised by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment if applicable. RecruitAbility applies and you may be invited to further assessment if you choose to apply under that scheme.
Direct Answer
Citizenship is required for this vacancy. The successful candidate must be an Australian citizen and will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearances. If your degree was obtained overseas, ensure it is recognised by the relevant Australian authority.
Additional Information
Diversity & Inclusion
The department values diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from Indigenous Australians, people with disability and people from various backgrounds.
RecruitAbility
RecruitAbility applies to this vacancy. You may be invited to participate in additional assessment if you apply under this scheme and declare a disability.
Future Merit Pools
Future merit pools may be created from this recruitment process to fill similar opportunities as they arise.
Call to Action
| Contact Officer | Entry Programs Team, N/A |
| Candidate Kit | https://jobs.homeaffairs.gov.au/job-invite/141290/ |
| Application Portal | https://jobs.homeaffairs.gov.au/job-invite/141290/ |