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.

Who can apply?

To be eligible for AGGP Economics Stream, you must submit a completed application prior to the closing date and time. Eligibility criteria may also include the following:

• evidence of Australian citizenship
• have completed (or will complete) at least an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7 qualification (a Bachelor degree), equivalent, or higher equivalent by 31 December 2025
• have completed your most recent degree no more than 5 years ago on the date you lodge your application
• be able to obtain and maintain a valid Australian Government security clearance once accepted onto the program when required. Further information on security clearances is available from Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA)
• be willing to undergo any police, character, health, or other checks required.

If you are successful in the process, you will be placed in a merit pool that will be considered by the APS and Commonwealth entities. You will get the opportunity to nominate DEWR as your preferred department. Please note that agencies and departments and will offer different employment conditions and graduate program features.

How to apply?

We work collaboratively with other APS agencies to recruit talented individuals through other specialty graduate and entry level programs. These speciality graduate programs are co-ordinated centrally by Australian Government Graduate Program (AGGP).

Visit the APS Jobs Career Pathways website to find out more or apply. Make sure you nominate the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations as your preferred agency for your chance to join us!