Graduate Development Program
Your career starts here
Are you starting to think about your career options for 2022? You might be spending some time looking at major government departments. Have you thought about working at the Department of Social Services?
We are a small, friendly department with the important mission of improving the wellbeing of individuals and families in Australian communities.
If you are curious and inquisitive with a passion for learning, we want to hear from you.
Application Opening Times
Applications for the 2022 Graduate Development Program are now closed.
Why choose us?
Our graduate program
- the program commences in February 2022 for a duration of 10 months
- commence at APS Level 3 and progress to APS Level 5 on successful completion of program
- two five-month work area placements (rotations)
- a challenging and rewarding introduction to working in government and being part of vital government initiatives
- invitations to participate in a range of learning and development activities, networking events, and short-term placements in not-for-profit organisations, Services Australia service centres and within other Portfolio Agencies
- starting salary of $63,719
- superannuation contributions of 15.4%
- 18 days of personal leave a year
- 4 weeks annual leave
The public service offers career progression and variety, as well as excellent pay and conditions.
Who are we looking for?
- Eager learners
- Curious and inquisitive graduates
- Those that can generate new and innovative ideas and solutions to help drive success
- Team players with good judgement and decision making skills
Eligibility Requirements:
- You must be an Australian citizen
- Completed your degree in the last 5 years up to December 2021 and are able to provide evidence
- Are able to relocate to Canberra
- Obtain and maintain an Australian Government Security Vetting Agency clearance
The application process
The selection process for our Generalist, Finance and Communications/Public Relations streams involves a number of stages and runs over several months. You will need pass each stage of the selection process in order to move onto the next stage.
Stage 1
Online application
You will need the following information:
- personal particulars.
- current employment details.
- responses to the Questions.
- details of your qualification — completed 5 years before 31 December 2021.
- your resume.
When you submit your application, you will receive an email to confirm receipt.
If you are successful in the application process, you will advance to the next stage.
Stage 2
Complete an online work sample assessment — May 2021
Applicants moving to stage two participate in a work sample assessment. We will send you instructions on what you need to do.
If your online work sample assessment meets the requirements, the next stage requires participate in a one-way video interview.
Stage 3
Video interview — May/June 2021
The video interview is a one-way, recorded interview. You should expect to answer up to five questions.
We recommend you prepare for the interview by:
- researching the Department of Social Services.
- practicing possible responses before undertaking your final video interview.
- ensuring the device you are using for your video is working.
- ensure your video background is appropriate and the lighting is sufficient
- dress as if you were interviewing in person.
Stage 4
Referee reports — June 2021
Referee reports confirm information about your employment history, qualifications, experience and role suitability. They also provide the selection panel with the opportunity to seek clarification on matters discussed during your assessment.
Stage 5
Merit pool — July 2021
At the completion of the application process, successful applicants move to the merit pool. The merit pool contains more applicants than positions available. From this merit pool, we conduct a matching process, finding the right jobs for the right people.
Stage 6
Receive verbal employment offer — August to December 2021
If you are successful in the matching process, we will contact you with an offer of employment. The offer is conditional based on you obtaining a police check and baseline security clearance.
We recommend you do not give notice to your current employer until you receive a formal, written offer of engagement and you have obtained the required clearances.
Know someone who might be interested in a spot in our 2022 Graduate Program?
Share this page with them – you never know, you might make their career!
Contact us
For enquiries about the Graduate Development Program, email us at GraduateRecruitment@dss.gov.au.
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