Graduate Development Program - Department of Defence

Applications open for 2013 program on 1 March 2012

The Department of Defence is one of Australia’s largest organisations encompassing military personnel and public servants (civilians). We implement the policies of government, and work to defend Australian interests and values. Our work force consists of driven and skilled people, committed to ensuring Australia’s security now and into the future.

Those that are successful in joining the Department of Defence Graduate Development Program (GDP) will realise their potential through on and off the job training; and real tasks and opportunities. You will have the chance to build strong professional networks with a variety of people; from the other graduates through to Senior Managers.

The GDP recruits university graduates with a range of academic qualifications from three year degrees to PhDs. Upon successful completion of the GDP, graduates are guaranteed a permanent position in the Australian Public Service (at APS Level 4) as part of the Department of Defence.

Whenever we can, we like to do our recruiting in-person. This enables us to give you individual attention and potential graduates to ask a 'real' person questions. See University Visits to view our schedule of careers fairs.

“I can’t recommend the GDP highly enough. The graduate year will give you truly unique opportunities to work inside one of the most interesting and dynamic organisations in Australia, and to see things that few other Australians will. The diversity of work available within Defence is astonishing. You might find yourself working on anything from strategic corporate governance, to analysis of fast-breaking world events, to key operational law decisions – I did! Plus, you’ll share the experience with a group of talented and fun graduates from across the country”.

Nick, graduated University of Melbourne
with Bachelor of Arts/Law; Master of Arts (History)