The Defence Graduate Program is a 12-month development opportunity designed to launch graduates career in the Australian Public Service (APS). Defence graduates will gain hands-on experience, build professional networks and develop the skills needed to make a real impact.
Structure
Throughout the program, graduates will contribute to meaningful work and projects, undertake the Graduate Core Training Program and participate in a range of program activities and events.
- Duration: 12 months
- Rotations: two 6-month placements within your chosen pathway
- Pathways: choose from 10 pathways aligned to your interests and qualifications.
Each graduate is also assigned a dedicated graduate pathway manager who will guide and support participants on their graduate journey, ensuring they have the resources and advice needed to succeed.
Employment and progression
Graduates commence as a graduate APS employee (APS Level 4 equivalent) under the Defence Enterprise Collective Agreement (DECA).
Upon successful completion of the program, including satisfying all training requirements, graduates will progress to the base of the APS Level 5 classification, setting them up for a rewarding career in Defence.
The standard working day for a Defence employee is 7.5 hours per day. Defence supports flexibility where operational requirements allow, helping you balance work and life commitments.
Defence is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. Defence is proud to host a number of staff networks, initiatives and activities to celebrate and respect the diversity of its workforce.
Placement locations and relocation requirements
Defence has graduate opportunities across Australia. When applying to the Graduate Program, it is important to note successful applicants may need to relocate. Defence can provide organisational and financial support.
Note that most Intelligence pathway positions are in Canberra due to the secure nature of work undertaken.
How to apply
Applying for the Defence Graduate Program is simple. Follow these steps to ensure application is submitted correctly:
- Confirm the pathway(s) you wish to apply for. Review the Graduate pathways pages to determine which pathway your skills and experience align with.
- Click the application link. Click on the Apply now button at the top of your selected pathway’s webpage to access the online application form.
- Complete the application form. Provide all required details, upload supporting documents and ensure your responses are accurate and complete.
- Submit before the closing date. Applications must be submitted by the advertised deadline. Late applications cannot be accepted.
Applications for 2027 programs open Monday 2 March 2026. Recruitment timelines vary by pathway, please be sure to check the closing dates carefully.
Applications for the 2028 Intelligence pathway will open mid-2026.
Privacy and access to personal information
Defence is bound by the Privacy Act 1988 (the Privacy Act) for the collection, storage, access, alteration, use and disclosure of personal information. These obligations are set out in Section 14 of the Privacy Act as the Information Privacy Principles.