Defence recognises the strength, diversity, and cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and we proudly welcome First Nations graduates into our workforce. First Nations graduates' cultural knowledge and lived experiences enrich our organisation and strengthen Defence capability.

First Nations graduates considering a career with Defence have two ways to join Defence:

  • through the Australian Government Graduate Program – Indigenous Graduate Pathway (IGP)
  • apply directly to a Defence graduate pathway.

Indigenous Graduate Pathway Program

The Australian Government Graduate Program – Indigenous Graduate Pathway allows First Nations graduates to do the following.

  • Submit one application for opportunities across the entire Australian Public Service.
  • Indicate Defence as a preferred agency.
  • Be considered for roles across multiple government departments, while still being eligible for placement in Defence.
  • Access a culturally safe, supportive recruitment process designed for First Nations applicants.

Defence is a proud participant in the IGP, and candidates who preference Defence may be placed into one of our 10 graduate pathways, based on your qualifications and area of expertise.

First Nations graduates will experience structured rotations, cultural support, and on-the-job learning while contributing to meaningful Defence work. the job learning while contributing to meaningful Defence work.

Defence graduate pathways

First Nations graduates can also apply directly to any of Defence’s Graduate pathways if they already know the type of work or career direction they are interested in. This is a great option for applicants who want to target a specific field such as engineering, intelligence, information communication and technology (ICT), human resources, research or policy.

Applying directly gives First Nations graduates a range of opportunities.

  • Choose the exact Defence pathway that aligns with their degree and interests.
  • Tailor their application to the career area they want to build experience in.
  • Engage directly with Defence throughout the recruitment process.
  • Explore opportunities specific to Defence’s mission and capability.

Many First Nations graduates choose to apply directly for the pathway that best matches their career goals and Defence welcomes applications through this avenue.

Defence offering

Defence offers First Nations graduates a tailored environment, with:

  • a supportive, culturally safe workplace
  • active Indigenous networks, mentoring, Elders engagement, yarning circles and cultural capability programs
  • career pathways with purpose
  • the opportunity to support Defence capability, community resilience, innovation, policy and national security
  • a broad range of professional roles
  • role offerings as diverse as the communities we serve: from engineering to ICT, intelligence, human resources, policy, science and more
  • guided development and structured learning
  • work alongside experienced professionals who support your growth and learning.

Opportunities

Depending on the pathway they join, First Nations graduates may gain experience in:

  • policy and engagement programs
  • intelligence and research analysis
  • ICT support, cyber security and digital delivery
  • engineering and technology development
  • data analytics, modelling and information management
  • human resources, wellbeing and workforce programs
  • legal policy and governance
  • commercial, procurement and logistics work
  • science, research and innovation projects.

Graduates contribute to meaningful work that supports Australia’s defence mission – with guidance and support every step of the way.