Qantas Graduate Programs & Internships
For almost a century, Qantas has been connecting Australians with the world and the world to Australia. Today, Qantas is regarded as the world’s leading long distance airline and one of the strongest brands in Australia. Qantas continues to provide outstanding service to its customers and is at the forefront of the international civil aviation industry.

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We're proud to be Australia's leading premium airline. And as the Spirit of Australia, we exist to champion the best of our country's life, style, attitude and people, and share it with the rest of the world.
The values we display each day make Qantas a unique place to work and grow your career:
- Together - at Qantas we know how to work as a team, and always come together as a united force to support our customers and each other.
- Genuine - we're known for being friendly, easy going and extending a warm welcome.
- Inventive - our world class safety, professionalism and product are the result of constant invention, inclusion and adaptation of the world's best ideas.
- Optimistic - it's a word synonymous with Australia, and at Qantas it's this optimism that drives us.
- Experienced - with almost 100 years of aviation experience under our belt, you know you're in safe hands.
But to stay ahead in such a competitive and constantly changing landscape, we need to keep pushing ourselves to new heights. We're aiming to be more than just a great airline - we want to be a great business too.
We're committed to delivering a fantastic experience for our customers each and every time, and our people share a passion for safety and service.
The Australian Association of Graduate Employers Top 75:
Qantas is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we invite you to be part of an organisation that fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace, supports many charities and environmental initiatives, and is actively committed to Australia's youth, the arts and sport. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.
About Our Graduate Program
As the Spirit of Australia, we’ve always been pioneers, and we’re proud to see that spirit in our people today. Our people’s passion and commitment drive us to keep pushing boundaries to take our business into the future.
We’re looking for graduates who are motivated and ready to take on new challenges. Successful applicants will play an integral role in shaping our culture, product, network and service.
You'll have opportunities you never imagined as we work together to create your career, one experience at a time.
Your ongoing development will be a focus throughout the program. Our development program integrates on-the-job experience, coaching, formal classroom learning, performance planning and feedback to support a 70:20:10 approach to learning where:
- 70% of learning and development comes from real-life and on-the-job experiences, tasks, and problem solving
- 20% is from feedback and from observing and working with mentors
- 10% of learning and development through formal training.
Key information:
- Start: February 2019.
- Length: two years.
- Four rotations across a range of projects and business functions.
- Streams: General, Finance and Technology.
Meet Our Graduates
Meet Bronte
Meet Nick
Meet Jacqui
Meet Renee
Meet Eren
Check out what our grads have to say about the inside goss of grad life at Qantas and find out more about their exciting experiences. Also meet a couple of our previous grad alumni and look at where the Qantas Grad program can take you:
Steve Clinch
Name: Steve John Clinch
Degree: Master of Professional Accounting – University of Technology, Sydney
Rotations: Group Reporting, Insight and Finance & Domestic Customer & Commercial
Current Finance Rotation: Centre of Finance Excellence, Associated Airlines – Decision Support
Why did you choose the Qantas Graduate Program?
I was a current employee of Qantas prior to applying for the finance graduate program, working for the last 15 years in an operational role. I decided to make a career change and went back to University to study Accounting. The Qantas Graduate Program enabled me to combine my passion for working in the airline industry and apply the skills I had developed throughout my degree. Being able to continue to work for an Australian iconic company has always appealed to me.
The ability to rotate through 4 different areas within the Finance department is a huge bonus, gaining a detailed understanding of the business from various aspects, giving me greater insight and direction to shape my career path within Qantas.
What was your biggest misconception about working for an airline?
The depth of the airline industry is immense and with that comes the need for a greatly diverse workforce. Since commencing the graduate program I have had the opportunity to network and learn vital skills from people with vastly different career backgrounds. I am gaining greater insight each week into the many niche departments and special project teams that you would only discover upon working in the airline industry, that contribute to the overall success of the business.
What do you get up to in your rotations?
I actively get involved in preparing monthly performance reports for the CFO, as well as half year and annual reports published publically. I also have the opportunity to be part of the contract review process for Qantas, analysing from an accounting perspective.
What support do you get?
As a grad there is great deal of support available to you to ensure your entry into the corporate world is a smooth transition from university/previous work life. A graduate program manager is your point of contact for the two year program. Each rotation you are allocated a rotation manager that is able to offer you the guidance and experience to realise your objectives for the rotation. There is also a buddy system in place, whereby on orientation you are paired with a buddy.
Any surprises?
The level of opportunity within the Finance department is vast and the opportunity to work on exciting projects that I would never even have considered before commencing the program. The Graduate program at Qantas is held with high regard within the Qantas workforce and it has been great to meet so many former grads who have pathed out exciting careers for themselves within Qantas. Fellow colleagues are keen to share their knowledge with grads.
Tips for those applying for the Qantas Graduate Program?
Study hard and apply yourself at University. The Qantas Grad program is highly competitive so prepare yourself for the interview selection process. Research the current Qantas business plan and strategy and apply the knowledge gained to how you can have a positive impact on the business. Great interpersonal and communication skills are highly important as all rotations involve working in a team environment.
Katrina Arkell
Name: Katrina Arkell
Graduate Cohort: 2009
Rotations: Generalist HR experience in Commercial Planning & in our New Zealand business; HR Shared Services; Industrial Relations
Degree: Bachelor of Business (HR Major)
Current Role: HR Manager (Flight Operations)
Why did you choose the Qantas Graduate Program?
It’s cliché but true – I knew from the start that I wanted a grad role in an organisation that I believed in and would be proud to say I worked for. Plus, I was banking on the fact that I would get to work across a whole range of areas, in both operational and corporate teams, which is exactly what happened.
What was your biggest misconception about working for an airline?
I definitely underestimated the size and complexity – i.e. the number of people across so many departments in over 30 ports around the world that come together every day to deliver for our customers. In one day, we move over 160,000 people on over 1,000 passenger flights; we serve over 133,000 meals; and we move over 73,000 pieces of luggage and over 4,000 shipments of freight.
What was the coolest part of being a Qantas Graduate?
As a graduate there’s a lot of focus on getting to know as many parts of the business as possible, not just through your rotations but also through regular ‘excursions’ where I flew an A380 under the harbour bridge (don’t worry, it was in a simulator…), got trained in evacuating an aircraft (again, exercise only) and helped prepare meals in our Catering Centre.
How has being part of the Graduate Program supported your career path through Qantas?
As you would probably expect, as a grad you will feel very well supported through your Managers and colleagues, and through the additional experiences and development opportunities that you get by being part of a formal program. But in a more informal way, one of the best things that continues to help me with career decisions post the grad program have been the relationships I’ve made with previous Managers but also just as importantly, with my fellow grads and peers.
What tips do you have for those applying for the Qantas Graduate Program?
- Be yourself – authenticity is important
- Be unique – think about what sets you apart from others and make sure you highlight that
- Be confident, but not over-confident (there’s a big difference!)
Your Application Journey
We're looking forward to welcoming some fresh faces onboard soon and one of those could be yours. But, before you apply for the Qantas Graduate Program, there are a few things you'll need to check:
- Are you in your final year of study? Or have you completed an undergraduate degree or postgraduate study in the last two years?
- Do you have, or did you graduate with, a distinction average or above?
- Can you work full time when the program starts in February 2019?
- Will you be a permanent resident or an Australian/NZ citizen when you apply?
- Are you willing to relocate to Sydney?
- Are you a Finance Graduate, a General Graduate or Technology Graduate?
We’re fortunate enough to receive thousands of applications for our graduate program and assessing each application fairly takes some time, so we ask for your patience. You’ll hear from us at each stage of the selection process, helping you stay up-to-date on the progress of your application.
Applying for a role with us requires resilience and commitment. Here’s what to expect:
Submit your application. Before you start your application, make sure you check that you're eligible to apply by reading our checklist above. If you meet the criteria and are ready to apply, submit your application online and we’ll notify you that we’ve received it via a pop-up message.
Online talent simulation. You’ll work through an online series of animated assessments using avatars and videos to assess your response to typical real-life job scenarios.
Online cognitive ability assessment. You’ll complete an online cognitive ability assessment measuring numerical, deductive and inductive reasoning.
Video interview. You’ll submit an online video interview to help us get to know you better.
Assessment centre. At our assessment centres, you’ll learn more about our program and participate in group and individual activities.
While you can’t really prepare for the activities in an assessment centre, to give yourself the best chance of success, spend some time researching Qantas. On the day, try to communicate clearly, let others in your group speak up and most importantly, relax, smile and enjoy your time with us.
Formal interview. During a formal face-to-face interview, we’ll ask you all the important questions to understand your motivations and how you’ll contribute to the business.
Offers. After the assessment centre, you'll be contacted and advised of the outcome. Don’t worry - we’ll keep you updated at each stage of the process leading to that point. And remember, not all offers are made on the same date.
Diversity and Indigenous Engagement

What is diversity and inclusion?
Australia is a country that's known for its diversity and inclusion – for embracing our differences as the things that make us unique. As an organisation that embodies the Spirit of Australia, it's no surprise that we're just as proud to celebrate diversity and encourage inclusion here at Qantas. Our people truly are at the heart of everything we do.
Whether it's your background, life experiences, education and area of expertise, or your gender, age, ethnicity, disability, religion and sexual orientation, having a diverse team means all voices are heard. It's an important part of our culture, and a vital element to our success as an organisation too.
Indigenous Engagement
We want to do everything we can to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians to gain more skills and find exciting employment opportunities. We have a number of Indigenous programs in place, including education and pathways to employment.
Our Indigenous careers team are dedicated to finding cadetships and other job opportunities across the Qantas Group for Indigenous Australians. We've seen first-hand just how much of a difference these programs can make to people's lives.
A place for everyone.
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Frequently Asked Questions
About the Qantas Graduate Program
When does the Qantas Graduate Program commence?
The Qantas Graduate Program commences each year in February.
Can I apply for the Graduate Program if I applied the previous year?
Yes, applicants are eligible to apply for the Qantas Graduate Program again the following year. Graduates should have completed their studies in any of the two years preceding commencement of the Program.
Can international students apply for the Qantas Graduate Program?
Yes, however, applications will only be accepted from applicants who hold Australian permanent residency or citizenship at application stage.
Can Qantas sponsor me for a work visa or to become a permanent resident?
To be considered for the Qantas Graduate Program you must be an Australian or New Zealand Citizen or a Permanent Resident at the time of application.
Which Stream is right for me?
- General Graduate: Our General Graduates hold all types of degrees and generally have a keen interest in working in the Aviation industry. You'll have the opportunity to work across diverse business areas such as Customer, Operations, Commercial and Corporate Strategy. All rotations are designed to build broad knowledge and skills and form professional networks to fast track your success as a future leader at Qantas. This program is really what you make of it!
- Finance Graduate: As a Finance Graduate you'll have the opportunity to work in our Centre of Finance Excellence, business partner with our Domestic or International Teams and our specialist teams such as Treasury and Tax. We're looking for individuals who have an accounting or finance degree that is an accredited tertiary course recognised for entry to the CA and CPA program(s). During your time on the Finance graduate program not only will you have the opportunity to work across the Group, we will pay for you to undertake your CA or CPA qualification.
- Technology Graduate: Technology is at the core of driving our vision to always be first choice for customers, from our market leading inflight WIFI connectivity, to our faster, smarter check-in solutions, right through to fitting out our brand new 787-9 Dreamliner fleet. As a Technology graduate at Qantas you will be at the forefront of new technology, designing and implementing solutions that will have real customer value. You could find yourself designing our latest app features, building out artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, investigating applications of block chain, or testing out new technology deployed onto our aircraft. We're looking for individuals who share our passion for technology-driven innovation and are willing to seek out the next wave of solutions that will fuel our growth. If you are ready to kick start your career as a game changing technologist this is the opportunity for you.
Please keep in mind, it’s not all about your degree, we're looking for well-rounded graduates whose values align to ours, who are involved in the community, participate in extra-curricular activities and have some work experience. That’s a bonus!
Is it considered an advantage to have post graduate qualifications or a double degree?
Applicants are assessed against a range of areas including academic achievement, work experience, extra-curricular activities as well as skills and capabilities. Qantas is looking for well-rounded applicants.
If I receive an offer for the Qantas Graduate Program, and I accept, can I start early?
Our Graduate Program is designed so that all our Graduates move through our induction and step-by-step guided development at the same time therefore all Graduates will start with us in early February.
Where will I be based?
All offers will be based at Qantas HQ in Mascot, Sydney. You must be willing to relocate to Sydney to be eligible for the Qantas Graduate Program.
What’s the Graduate salary?
Qantas offers graduates a competitive market salary. Further details will be discussed with you as you progress throughout the recruitment process.
Does Qantas offer relocation assistance?
Qantas will provide basic relocation assistance to successful interstate applicants while they are looking for permanent accommodation. No additional assistance will be provided.
What development support will I get as a Graduate?
Your ongoing development will be a focus throughout the Program. Our Development Program integrates on the job experience, coaching, formal classroom learning, performance planning and feedback to support a 70:20:10 approach to learning where:
- 70% of learning & development takes place from real-life and on-the-job experiences, tasks, and problem solving
- 20% comes from feedback and from observing and working with role models
- 10% of learning and development comes from formal training
How long is the Qantas Graduate Program and can I finish the program earlier than two years?
The Qantas Graduate Program runs for two years and consists of 4 x 6 month rotations. The rotations are designed to broaden your skills, knowledge and networks by enhancing your business acumen, building your leadership and management capabilities and strengthening your knowledge of the aviation industry. The Program cannot be finished in less than two years.
What areas of the business could my rotations be in?
As a General Graduate your rotations will span across Commercial, Customer, Operational and Corporate/Specialised areas.
As a Finance Graduate you'll have the opportunity to work in our Centre of Finance Excellence, business partner with our Domestic or International Teams and our specialist teams such as Treasury and Tax.
As a Technology Graduate you could find yourself designing our latest app features, building out artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, investigating applications of block chain, or testing out new technology deployed onto our aircraft.
What are my job prospects after the Qantas Graduate Program?
Upon the successful completion of the Qantas Graduate Program, you will work with the Graduate Program Manager and business contacts to identify suitable roles that are available internally.
Will I receive career guidance when I finish the Qantas Graduate Program?
Throughout the Qantas Graduate Program you will receive formal and informal career guidance. Your Graduate Program Manager, Rotation Managers, Mentors and Group Organisational Development Manager will support you throughout and when rolling off the Program as will the skills you develop in your rotations.
The Recruitment Process
What are the minimum requirements?
- Must be in your final year of study or have completed an undergraduate degree or postgraduate study within the last 2 years
- Must be a permanent resident or Australian / NZ citizen as at the date of application
- Must hold a current distinction average or above
- Finance graduates must have completed a degree in an Accounting or Finance related discipline that is an accredited tertiary course recognised for entry to the CA and CPA program(s)
- Technology graduates must have completed a degree in IT or a degree with an IT major
- Must be able to commence full time work from February the following year
- Must be willing to relocate to Sydney for the Program
- Ideally have previous work experience
- Ideally take part in extra-curricular activities and/or other leadership type roles
What are the key stages of the Qantas Graduate recruitment process?
- Applications Open
- Applications Close
- Online Talent Simulation
- Online Ability Test
- Video Interview
- Assessment Centre
- Formal Interview
- Offers
Can I apply for all streams i.e. Finance, General and Technology Stream(s)?
In your application you will be asked to apply for one of the streams, you will not be able to apply for more than one. Once you select your preferred option in your application, you will not be able to change this by reentering the online application portal. Be confident in your selection and choose the program that you are most passionate about.
What if I only have a credit average, can I still apply?
If you currently hold a credit average or graduated with the same, we would encourage you to still apply.
What happens in an assessment centre?
Assessment centres involve group and individual activities. You can’t really prepare for the activities in an assessment centre, but to do well, it’s a good idea to research Qantas, relax, smile, communicate clearly and give others in the group activities a chance to speak too!
Will Qantas pay for my accommodation and flights to attend interviews and assessment centres if I live interstate?
If you are successful in proceeding through the application stages Qantas will provide assistance with flights only (no accommodation) for you to attend any required interviews and assessment centres.
Can I send a hard copy of my resume or email my resume directly to you instead of applying online?
No, all applications must be submitted online.
Who do I contact if there is an issue with my application or I am not longer able to attend the assessment centre?
Please send an email to [email protected].
Why does it sometimes take a while to hear back about my application?
Qantas is fortunate to receive thousands of applications. To assess each one fairly we do ask for your patience. The Talent Acquisition team will keep you updated via email as soon as possible at each stage of the selection process.
When does Qantas make offers?
From June, early July onwards, you can expect to be discussing offers with us. Of course, we’ll keep you updated at each stage of the process leading up to that point. And remember, not all offers are made on the same date.
I have applied for the Qantas Graduate Program, when will I be contacted?
After applications close, the Talent Acquisition team will review all applications and shortlist successful candidates.
How will I know you’ve received my application?
You will receive confirmation via a pop-up message acknowledging the receipt of your application once submitted. Once you are logged in, the system will also show your application status as “in progress”.
Is it possible to update my details once they have been submitted?
It is not possible to update the information which you have included in your application. If there is a requirement to update your details, please e-mail [email protected].
I can’t remember my username or password, what can I do?
If you have forgotten your username and password, you can retrieve these details from the application site. Simply click ‘Forgot your username’ or ‘Forgot your password’ and an email with these details will be sent to your account
Social Responsibility and Sustainability
Social responsibility - part of Australia's bigger picture
From our very first flight almost 100 years ago in Queensland's outback, we've worked hard to become an integral part of this country's bigger picture. And it's something we'll continue to do for the next 100 years. That means stepping up to help in local communities, supporting Australians in times of natural disaster, and flying medical patients and supplies across our network.
We take great pride in knowing that we can make a difference to the lives of ordinary Australians.
Sustainability - building a sustainable future
Connecting Australians with each other and the world is what drives us, and it's something we plan to keep doing for a long time. That's why we take our responsibility to recognise and reduce our environmental impact very seriously. Learn more at Qantas Future Planet.