Traineeships & Apprenticeships
There are a number of Traineeship or Apprenticeship programs available across the Commonwealth Public Service, which provide Indigenous Australians with the necessary skills, knowledge and a pathway to a career. On completion, you will generally receive a nationally recognised Certificate-level qualification, a permanent position and a pay rise.
Evergreen Program
This program is run by the Australian Taxation Office, offering employment in various locations across Australia. The program runs for 18 months, aiming at building your workplace skills through on the job training and work rotations. You will be initially employed as an APS 2, with the potential to be progressed to an APS 3 upon traineeship completion. Applications generally open mid-year, around NAIDOC Week.
Indigenous Apprenticeships Program (IAP)
This whole-of-government program is facilitated by Services Australia, with positions in all major cities as well as some regional and remote locations. As an Entry Level Program, apprentices begin at the APS2 or APS3 classification level. The program is full-time and runs over 12 months with on the job training, while working towards a nationally recongnised certificate IV or diploma qualification. Apprentices are provided with a number of support mechanisms throughout the program including an Indigenous buddy and mentor. Upon successful completion of the program apprentices will advance to the APS3 or APS4 classification level.
Applications are generally open March/April each year.
Indigenous Australian Government Development Program (IAGDP)
This program is facilitated by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment and is an 18 month program that provides employment opportunities across the Australian Public Service. You will complete a Diploma in Government and be provided with work to apply what you are learning. You will commence at the APS 3 level (or equivalent), and advanced to the APS 4 level (or equivalent) upon successful completion of the program. Applications generally open in January/February each year.
Career Starter Program
The Career Starter Program is coordinated by the Department of Finance and allows participants to build skills on the job, learn through structured training and work as part of a team. It is for school leavers who have recently completed Year 12. Opportunities are available across various Australian Government departments and agencies. You will complete a Certificate IV in Government while working fulltime over the 11 months of the structured program. On successful completion of the Program you will have a permanent job and will be advanced to the APS 2 level. Applications usually open in July.
Digital Apprenticeship Program
The Digital Apprenticeship Program is coordinated by the Digital Transformation Agency on behalf of a range of Australian Public Service agencies. Program positions may be available in various locations around the country. You will have opportunities to get industry experience while completing a Certificate IV or Diploma in a digital or technology-related field. On successful completion of the program you will have permanent employment. There is support and coaching throughout the Program. Applications generally open in May