Australian Government Career Starter Program

About this role

ABOUT THE CAREER STARTER PROGRAM

Are you a recent Year 12 graduate (Class of 2025), or are you completing Year 12 in 2026 and ready to kick-start your professional journey in the Australian Public Service? The Career Starter Program is your gateway to a rewarding career, combining real-world experience with formal study.

As a Career Starter, you’ll gain:

• Valuable hands-on experience in the APS • Access to structured learning and development opportunities • Opportunities to connect and network with fellow participants through regular forums • Ongoing mentoring and support from experienced professionals to help you succeed and grow in your career.

Upon successful completion of the program, you will progress to the APS2 classification, opening doors to further career growth within the APS.

With just one application, you’ll be considered for roles across a range of Australian Government departments and agencies, maximizing your chances of finding the perfect fit.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As a Career Starter you will:

• Be a permanent employee within the Australian Public Service (there may be positions available in states outside of Canberra subject to agency vacancies); • Competitive starting salary at the APS1 classification. Please note salaries vary across agencies; • Advancement opportunity to the APS2 classification, upon successful completion of the program; • Four weeks paid leave per year; • Flexible and inclusive working environment; • Superannuation of 15.4%.

The program consists of:

• Working full time in a permanent APS1 role in a participating department or agency • Completing a Certificate IV in Government or Human Resource Management • Receiving support from a dedicated supervisor and team • Quarterly networking events with other Career Starters across government • A ‘buddy’ from the previous years’ program or similar.

Roles may be offered in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne or Sydney with successful applicants commencing the program in February 2026.

DETAILED VACANCY INFORMATION

For detailed information about this role, including the job specific capabilities, please refer to the downloadable vacancy pack, which can be accessed by clicking the hyperlink at the bottom of this page.