Bring your unique skills and experiences to a world of opportunity at Defence. No matter your pathway, your contribution leaves an imprint at Defence that is uniquely yours.
You'll work with a diverse group of dedicated experts and access cutting-edge technology designed to protect Australian interests.
As a graduate, you’ll have a chance to support Australia’s security and humanitarian efforts.
Defence is the winner of the Graduate Employer award for Government & Public Safety by Prosple.
Join one of the Top 100 Graduate employers and kick-start a future with purpose.
The Defence Graduate Program offers you a real part in keeping Australia safe and secure.
The Program offers has 4 pathways based on skills and areas of study. Each provides unique learning experiences and career development:
The pathways help you to launch your Defence career with confidence and purpose. You will get:
As a Defence Graduate, you will:
In the application form, you will need to choose 2 preferred pathways and job role or area of interest. Learn more about the 4 Graduate Pathways.
This program is for graduates who:
Successful candidates will also need a security clearance. The level of clearance will depend on which pathway you are accepted into.
If you’re offered a position in a high-security environment, you will likely need to undertake a psychological assessment. They type of assessment depends on which area of Defence you're accepted into.
Read more about eligibility.
Please note: Intelligence pathway applicants may need to complete extra suitability assessments. This may extend the time before you find out the outcome of your application.
Application form
Online assessments
If you're eligible, you’ll be invited to complete 2 online assessments. These should take around 20-30 minutes total.
These assessments help the Recruitment Team to match you with potential pathways
Virtual Assessment Centre
Based on your eligibility and the results of online assessments, you may progress to a Virtual Assessment Centre. You'll receive an email invitation to book a preferred time and date.
Anyone who is not suited to the Defence Graduate Program won't progress any further in the selection process. These candidates will be notified via email.
Outcomes and offers
If you're successful at the Virtual assessment, you'll be notified by early September.
Please note: If you apply for the Intelligence Pathway you will have to complete extra suitability tests. This may extend the time before you find out the outcome of your application.
Competitive salary and benefits
All successful candidates start the Graduate Program on a salary of $73,343 plus 15.4% superannuation (increasing to $76,277 upon the Fair Work Commission approval of the Defence Enterprise Collective Agreement – 2024). If you successfully complete the Program, you will advance to a higher salary. The amount depends on which training pathway you've completed. Defence’s generous remuneration package, conditions of service, flexibility and leave benefits contribute to a happy work/life balance.
Comprehensive learning and development
You will experience a tailored learning and development program, that is grounded in foundational, social and experiential learning. The program will give you the knowledge and skills to propel you into an exciting and challenging career.
All graduate pathways will include:
Relocation support
Defence offers opportunities across Australia, but it’s important to note that you may need to relocate if you’re successful. If you need to relocate, Defence can support you with the cost of moving.
Diversity and inclusion
Defence is committed to diversity and inclusion, and building a workforce that reflects the community we serve. Defence relies on a capable and talented workforce, regardless of background, gender, age, culture, religion, ability or sexual orientation.
Employees strive to uphold and demonstrate respectful, professional and inclusive behaviours.. A diverse workforce:
Research and Innovation, Specialised Coatings and Corrosion Science at Department of Defence
Intelligence Analyst at Department of Defence
Bachelor of International Relations at Australian National University (ANU)
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