Graduate Trainee profile - Natalie

Current position

Korean language trainee

What were you doing before joining DFAT?

Prior to joining DFAT, I was studying combined bachelor degrees in Commerce and Arts (Asian Studies) at Sydney University, whilst working part-time for a Japanese government agency in Sydney.

Why did you apply to DFAT?

DFAT offers a unique opportunity to work on exciting policy issues, whether it is international security, economics and climate change, or reporting on political developments in an intriguing and constantly shifting world. While travel is a popular and growing job description for many private sector jobs, I was attracted to working for the Government and being an agent for Australia and its policies overseas. The work is rich, diverse, meaningful and dynamic. The chance to go on posting within the first few years of joining the Department made the graduate program the most attractive entry-level position.

Do you speak any languages?

Yes, I speak Japanese.

What was the most challenging aspect of your training period?

During our training period, we simulated a number of multilateral negotiations on security and trade-related scenarios. I was constantly impressed by my colleagues' ability to quickly grasp complex issues and respond intelligently with strategic insight. With no legal training it was a steep learning curve to digest the implications and utility of international legal instruments in a practical exercise. I hope to gain the opportunity to participate in real-life negotiations in the future.

What was the most rewarding aspect of your training period?

During the first year of the two-year graduate program, I participated in a regional travel program with five colleagues and two international participants from Fiji and East Timor. We spent one week in South Australia, meeting with some of South Australia's key exporters and tourism providers, and learning about regional development programs, environmental challenges and cultural advocacy opportunities during meetings with industry and state government representatives. It provided a taste of how much Australia - its people, business, art and culture - can offer the world. It helped me appreciate the importance and necessary role of an Australian diplomat overseas.

Other highlights have included: working as a liaison officer for the Vietnamese delegation during APEC in Sydney; going to Paris for an OECD Ministerial Council Meeting; working on the team during the Cluster Munitions Convention negotiations in Dublin; and organising a multilateral security conference in Canberra that involved five component meetings over seven days. The meeting was attended by over 200 representatives from 34 countries.

Where will you be posted and why did you apply for this position?

I will work in the Australian Embassy in Seoul from 2010 to 2013. At present, I am completing 20 months Korean language training, with the latter half in-country. I applied for this role as I wanted to learn another Asian language and am a North-Asia enthusiast. I have travelled to China and Japan, but have yet to reach the shores of the Korean peninsula. Our embassy in Seoul is accredited to North Korea and Mongolia, so hopefully I will find an opportunity to visit these countries too.

How did your training prepare you for your first posting?

The graduate training program was comprehensive. I was able to train intensively in international law, economics and policy development, and gain advocacy, media, negotiation, presentation and management skills. I did three 6-month rotations, working on trade policy, counter-proliferation policy and on a bilateral desk. My posting will focus on reporting to Canberra developments in Korea's domestic economy and its implications for Australia, and on making regular representations to the Korean Government on Australia's climate change, maritime, environmental, trade, resources, financial, tourism, ICT and innovation policies. All these subject areas were addressed in at least one training session or workplace rotation.

Why would you recommend a career in DFAT?

I would recommend DFAT as a long-term career move for people interested in Australia's international relations with countries big and small. The work is rich, diverse, meaningful and dynamic, and allows you to work with extraordinary people on any given international topic. There is scope to move around within the Department every couple of years, so it is very much suited for those who enjoy frequent change. But it is not suited for everyone; officers are encouraged to be flexible, adaptable and generalists. Half the time you're a public servant in Canberra, and the other times you're living overseas as an Australian government representative.