Careers

Giving you a place at the centre of government to help shape important issues.

Why work with us

Looking for a career where you can solve some of our country’s most pressing challenges?

Our advice and insight shapes policy that’s critical to Australia’s future. We’re looking for people with diverse skills, expertise, perspectives and lived experience to join us in building a better future for all Australians. 

One department, many careers

We’re many policy areas, industries and careers in one. From critical technologies to critical minerals, astronomy to supply chains, there are endless opportunities to grow your career, skills and experience with us. 

Open and flexible

We understand everyone has a life beyond work, and we empower you to fulfil your duties in a way that works for you and your team. We provide flexible working options and a healthy lifestyle program to support work/life balance.

A safe space for all

We want you to be your authentic self at work. That’s why we’re creating an inclusive culture that allows everyone to feel safe, engaged and valued.

Careers for graduates

Grow your skills and make a difference with us.

Careers for people with disability

We make it easy for you to have a voice on issues that really matter.

Learn more about working with us

Application process

Find out how to apply for a position with our department.

Conditions and benefits

Find our enterprise agreement and learn about pay, conditions and benefits at our department.

Diversity and inclusion

Learn about our diversity networks and inclusive workplace.

Accessible workplace

We are committed to supporting employees with a disability. Learn how our workplace, technology and values contribute to this commitment.

Corporate plan 2024–28

Our corporate plan explains who we are, what we do and where we are going.

Organisation chart

Learn how our department is structured.

People strategy 2024–2026

Our people strategy shows our department's values, culture and commitment to supporting our workforce over the next 2 years.

Read the latest career news

Man at desk talks to another man via video conferencing

Science Policy Fellowship Program open

Mid-career scientists are encouraged to apply for exciting opportunities in the Australian Public Service (APS). Applications close 29 August.
A diverse group of workers sitting around a table for a meeting.

Announcing our new people strategy

Want to know how we’re building a better future for all Australians? See our People strategy 2024–2026.

Hear what people say

Policy roles

Our policy officers find their work rewarding and collaborative. You can contribute to critical policies and programs that benefit all Australians. 

I enjoy the fact that the department is quite focused on strong implementation of policies and programs
that benefit Australian interests. 

We are known as a quite a strong implementation agency, which means there's quite a bit of direct
engagement and liaison with the stakeholders, whether it's from industry or the research sector.

The department is very supportive of work-life balance including allowing for remote working
and flexible work arrangements.

I really like the department in that it provides me with a unique opportunity to engage directly with everyday
Australians on a daily basis.

Legal roles

Legal work with us is anything but routine. You could find yourself working on a diverse range of issues including space, measurement and minerals. 

I decided this on department, because of the wide variety of work the department does. 

I work with a group of very diverse and talented and capable group of lawyers advising the space agency in relation to a license to launch a rocket from Australia, so it’s all very interesting and varied.

The culture of the department is collaboration. So for example in the legal branch there's always going to be at least two lawyers working on the same matter. 

I am currently accessing study assistance and study leave as well in pursuing a Master of Law degree from the ANU, and I find that I have been very strongly supported in doing so.

Was this page helpful?

Was this page useful?
Yes
No
Neither

Thank you for your feedback!

Would you like to tell us more about your experiences with this page? (optional)

Feedback you provide will not be directly answered. If you require a reply, please reach out to the page contact directly. For any other queries, please use our general enquiries web form.

Please do not include personal or financial information (e.g. email addresses, phone numbers or credit card details).

Your feedback is covered by our privacy policy.