Department of Industry, Science and Resources Reviews

It’s been fantastic to work over a number of policy roles and without this program it would have likely taken me anywhere from 3 to 5 years to reach APS 5. A very well worth acceleration of career prospects and worthwhile program, allows me to contribute more at a younger age

DISR is a government department, so there is a high level of CSR to the Australian public and taxpayers. All the work that I do in my day to day jobs, all have a high level of integrity from all levels of the hierarchy.

Supportive, inclusive, and encouraging of work/life balance

DISR has extreme diversity reflected in its workforce and inclusive culture, which is likely why results are so fantastic.

My current responsibilities are within my capabilities and contribute meaningfully to the team. I feel supported to engage with opportunities which broaden my capabilities and experience.

My managers in my first and second rotation were fantastic. They were excellent mentors, efficient communicators, and good providers of feedback. They took an active interest in my life and career.

The office is clean, friendly and located conveniently for my purposes. The facilities have everything necessary to meet my needs. The dress code is not onerous and flexible enough to allow for themed events in the department. This contributes to a positive workplace culture.

The interviews and assessments felt thorough and competitive. Asked about scenario questions, questions asking about my motivations and general background questions. Be your authentic selves and put your best experiences forward. Give yourself the best environment to do the writtien/analytical tests, and don't rush yourself as you only have a limited timeframe to complete it. Academic history is great, but looking into life experiences will give you more diversity in your answer. Prepare in advance your interview answers by looking back and reflection on the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action and Result) will give you the best shot for interview.

Working as an APS, there are no pay bonuses on your salary. The benefit is the 15.4% superannuation on top of your salary. Graduates are remunerated well. Pay rises are on the basis of applying for a higher ranked position. All work-related trips are covered for. 18 days of personal leave. Access to Cultural Leave for significant cultural or ceremonial events. Flexible working arrangements.

As part of the Graduate Development Program, the Employment Programs team provides scheduled training throughout the year. These training sessions include items such as learning the Foundations of Government, Project Planning, and Effective Communication. These skills helped in building appropriate language and understanding of Government work. I have also undertaken elective training in building stronger application skills and strengths and values training. Being a STEM graduate, I have had the opportunity to have a mentor support me in my transition into the APS, which has been great to build informal training and goals. My supervisors during my rotations have also informally trained me in government priorities, the most important skills and equipping me with the appropriate skillset required for my day-to-day work.

My work hours are often from 9-5, however the department is flexible with the hours that you work as long as you complete your work. The added benefit having flex time is ensuring that you get time off for the extra hours that you spend working. It is an adaptive department where personal work hours preferences are respected.

I've noticed efforts have been made to encourage recycling in the workplace and believe there is a committee that is focused on sustainability in the workplace.