Economics Stream Graduate Program (Jan 2025)

“As a graduate in economics I was focused on learning all about the labour market and the economic data that we have available to inform good policy. I worked on briefings for senior staff and the minister, prepared briefs for Senate Estimates, and contributed to the government’s submission to the Annual Wage Review.

For me my favourite part of the Graduate Program was absolutely the friends – it is so rare at this point in our lives to have the chance to meet a cohort of 60 like-minded people from all over Australia who you will inevitably have so much in common with. It was the best way to move to Canberra with a bunch of people who were all in exactly the same boat.” 

– Linda, 2022 Graduate

At the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) our economics graduates are engaged across the whole department with rotation opportunities available in policy, program delivery and technical areas. Graduates are involved in conducting evidence-based research and analysis which supports our Ministers and other stakeholders and enables them to make well-informed decisions.

As an economics graduate, you can:

• Help shape economic and policy deliberations on diverse topics
• Contribute towards analysis that helps support disadvantaged labour market cohorts such as young workers, the long-term unemployed, those with a disability, and mature aged workers.
• Further develop your technical skills via exposure to diverse analytical techniques, economic models, and complex datasets.
• Be mentored by some of the best economists, labour market analysts, data scientists, and policy analysts within the public service — our economics graduates have a strong track record of promotion and career progression, with many previous graduates going on to senior positions in the department and other agencies such as the Treasury and the Reserve Bank of Australia.

Additionally, all graduates in our Graduate Program will undertake a formal learning and development program.

Who we are Looking For

We are looking for graduates who are enthusiastic, energetic and have a strong background in economics, econometrics or other relevant fields such as finance, commerce, mathematics, statistics, data science or engineering. We are seeking candidates who have a strong work ethic, strong written and oral communication skills, and well-developed interpersonal skills.

In addition to the eligibility criteria for graduates in the economics stream, we are looking for graduates who have:

• Tertiary qualifications in economics, econometrics, or another relevant field of study such as finance, commerce, mathematics, statistics, data science or engineering. Candidates from these fields may be required to demonstrate their aptitude and understanding of economic concepts in their applications and assessment.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, including the ability to actively engage with co-workers and stakeholders.
• Enthusiasm and a fresh-thinking attitude that is open to learning and innovation. 

Our Program

As a DEWR Graduate, you will be exposed to many facets of our portfolio as you build your capability during the Program.

Being part of a graduate cohort is a great way for you to transition from education to employment. We know firsthand the significance of this milestone and you'll find our graduate program connects you to friendly, experienced professionals who will help you apply your skills and knowledge as you start your career.

The DEWR Graduate Program is a ten-month program and runs from February to December each year. As a DEWE Graduate you will experience:

• a holistic view of working in a government agency through two allocated work placements.
• a formal learning and development program (including a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration).
• on-the-job experience and the opportunity to work with and learn from subject matter experts.
• a range of formal and on-the-job training activities designed to provide you with the tools to develop as an APS officer.
• working in a supportive, inclusive and flexible working environment
• various opportunities to be involved in a wide range of networks, social and fundraising events.

The DEWR Graduate program also offers:

• relocation assistance to move to Canberra.
• permanent ongoing employment in the Australian Public Service.
• career progression from APS Level 3.1 to APS Level 5.1 on successful completion of the program.
• support from a buddy/alumni.
• an Employee Assistance Program for wellbeing and career support.
• dedicated buddy and supervisor.
• a dedicated Graduate Sponsor passionate about seeing you thrive.

Positions are primarily located in Canberra.

Secure jobs are vital—driving future economic growth and providing people with certainty. We focus on connecting Australians who are starting, advancing, or changing their career with the relevant skills, knowledge, and experience to gain or regain employment.

We do this by actively filling skill gaps to support Australia's economic growth by identifying industries with skill shortages, including emerging industries fundamental to the prosperity of individuals, businesses, and our nation.

Not only are we looking for strategic, fresh-thinking, innovative and high performing graduates, but also, we’re looking for graduates that are enthusiastic, motivated and open to learning. Additionally, flexibility and interpersonal skills are key attributes that will help you be successful in your graduate year and beyond as you apply your degree in ways you never imagined! 

Our work makes a difference to the lives of all Australians, and we want you to be part of it.

Further information about our graduate program, including what we offer our graduates, is available on our website.