Graduate Trainee profile - Zhi

Year joined

2010

Current position

Desk Officer, Agriculture and Food Trade Branch, Office of Trade Negotiations (2nd Placement)

Other positions in DFAT

Desk Officer, Counter-Terrorism Branch, International Security Division (1st Placement)

Where did you live and what were you doing before joining DFAT?

Prior to joining DFAT, I worked in the Media Unit of the Prime Minister's Office and as Management Consultant (Strategy) in Canberra. I also served as a Board Member on the NSW Board of Studies and the NSW Health Futures Strategic Advisory Council.

What qualifications do you have?

Bachelor of Arts (Political Science)/Bachelor of Laws (The Australian National University) Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (The Australian National University)

How have you used your qualifications/experience during your time in DFAT?

The nature of DFAT work requires you to pull together and process information quickly, while balancing organisational tasks. I have used my skills in everything from strategic thinking and policy analysis to project management and events organisation. Your problem solving capabilities will definitely get a work out.

Do you speak another language?

Basic Mandarin

Why did you apply to DFAT?

International and foreign policy is an area that has always captured my attention. I saw working at DFAT as a mechanism for influencing and shaping Australia’s posture and behaviour on the international stage. DFAT also seemed to offer a rewarding career that was full of varied and interesting challenges. There is also no better place to get a strong foundation in and understanding of international policy.

What was the most challenging aspect of the recruitment/selection process?

The recruitment/selection process as a whole was quite challenging, as it tested your skills in numerous areas. The most impressive (and I guess most challenging) aspect was the quality of the interviewers. From the outset, you were aware that your application had been well considered and scrutinised, so be prepared.

Do you have any tips for applicants on how to approach the application process?

As you may have read, the application process is fairly long. My advice would be to take one step at a time, that way it doesn’t become too overwhelming. Each task should be prepared for individually as they will present different challenges. Allow your subject matter knowledge, passion for international affairs and experiences/personality come through in your application.

Has the reality of working in DFAT differed from your perceptions of what it was going to be like?

Working at DFAT allows you to see the nuts and bolts of Australian foreign policy. This includes everything from organising international visits (incoming and outgoing) to participating in foreign policy debates and discussions. As a graduate, you will get to see and experience the spectrum of what DFAT does in Australia and overseas.

What has been the highlight of your career with DFAT so far?

Being able to work with the expertise and experience DFAT holds in-house has been a highlight. All around the Department are former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and senior diplomatic staff. Hearing stories and learning from their experiences as DFAT officers overseas and in Canberra has been both inspiring and informative.

As an economist/accountant/lawyer etc, why would you recommend DFAT over other career options?

DFAT allows you to engage on issues within your professional background that may not be available in the private sector. For those with legal backgrounds, DFAT offers the opportunity to work on issues relating to international public law and World Trade Organisation (WTO) law. This may involve working on transnational crime and sanctions, law of the sea, WTO trade disputes and potentially International Court of Justice (ICJ) cases. In this way, DFAT offers opportunities in your professional background areas that are beyond what may be available in private practice.

How do you enjoy living in Canberra?

I have lived in Canberra for a number of years. It is very much outdoors city, with plenty to offer the active. Canberra is also a city full of hidden gems with some great eating spots and bars if you know where to look. Very little traffic at the worst of times and friends living close by are also a definite bonus (almost nowhere is more than 30 mins drive away).

Have you any other insights for potential applicants?

As a new officer, I am unable to give you an insight into the full DFAT experience. However, what I can say from my time at the Department is that out of all the experiences I’ve had so far in my working life, this is something I could easily do for the rest of my career.