Graduate Trainees
Who are we looking for?
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade aims to recruit a diverse group of graduates each year, representing and reflecting the best of the Australian community. We are interested in graduates from all academic disciplines, and seek people with the skills, knowledge and abilities to contribute to the department's work in advancing Australia's national interests.
The graduates we are looking for are:
- talented, highly motivated and committed to the goals of the department;
- good communicators;
- strategic thinkers and practical problem-solvers;
- team players;
- flexible, adaptable and resourceful; and
- sensitive to, and appreciative of, difference and diversity.
See our selection criteria for further details.
As a minimum, applicants for our graduate program need a three-year Bachelor degree from an Australian university, or a degree recognised by the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition as equivalent. They must also hold, or have been granted, Australian citizenship by the date of the written test.
Competition for places in our graduate program is strong, so applicants need to demonstrate a history of academic achievement at a high level. However, academic qualifications are not the sole criterion. We also assess applicants on the basis of their work experience, extracurricular achievements, community activities and skills such as foreign language abilities.
Workplace Diversity
Our recruitment decisions are made on the basis of merit, and we do not discriminate on the grounds of gender, age, race, ethnicity, religion or disability.
The department understands the benefits of building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the Australian community. We work hard to ensure that our staff enjoy equity and fairness in the workplace, free from harassment and discrimination. We also encourage staff to seek a healthy balance between their working lives and their commitments and other pursuits outside the office.
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