Frequently asked questions

1. How do I apply?
For information on the application process please go to the graduate website and view ‘How to Apply’ information.

Hints and tips on how to prepare your application are also available on the website.

Applications for the 2012 program are now closed.

2. How do I know if I am I eligible to apply?
If you have completed or are in the processing of completing a three year undergraduate degree prior to the commencement on the program in mid January 2012 you are eligible to apply.

3. Do I need to be an Australian citizen?
Yes, to be eligible to apply for the program you must be an Australian citizen or have citizenship granted prior to the commencement on the program in January.

4. I completed my degree a while ago, am I still able to apply for the Graduate Development Program?
Yes, the department does not apply any limitation on when your degree was completed.  The department recruits a diverse range of people for the program and values people who have work and life experiences.

5. I have an overseas qualification, will it be recognised?
If you obtained your degree at an overseas university, you will need to have it recognised by the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (NOOSR).  Please contact NOOSR on 1300 636 079 if you have any questions.  NOOSR can also be contacted via the website.

6. What kind of degrees does DAFF looking for?
We seek graduates from a wide range of disciplines, including, but not limited to Science, Law, Economics Veterinary Science, Plant Science, Ecology, Commerce, Business, Arts, Agriculture, Communications, Management, Entomology, Rural Studies, Food Technology, Social Science, Human Resource Management and Marine Science/Biology.

7. What does the Graduate Development Program (GDP) involve?
The Graduate Development Program is delivered over 11-months and provides challenging opportunities to gain skills and knowledge through three diverse workplace rotations, a leadership residential, and a comprehensive industry project where you will liaise with industry representatives. While completing the GDP you will also undertake a formal learning and development program that results in the award of a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration administered by the University of Canberra.

8. What do the rotations include? Where will I be doing my rotations?
You will undertake three (3) diverse workplace rotations throughout the department. These rotations, where possible, include policy, program and corporate or research placements and aim to give you a diverse overview of the department. We will attempt to match your rotation preferences as much as we possibly can, however we need to also ensure business needs are met.

9. When does the Graduate Development Program Start? Where do we start on that day?
The Graduate Development Program (GDP) commence in mid January of each year at 18 Marcus Clarke Street, Civic. However, successful graduates are encouraged to be in Canberra in the week before, to commence looking for permanent accommodation and familiarising themselves with Canberra.

10. Are all the positions based in Canberra?
Yes

11. Will DAFF assist me with my relocation to Canberra?
DAFF will provide assistance in relocating you, your partner and dependants to Canberra along with your personal effects. In addition, DAFF will provide you with temporary accommodation for 3 weeks in a serviced apartment in Canberra upon your arrival (if required).

12. What are the salary and benefits offered? How much will I be paid?
The current commencement salary for graduates is $55,711 plus superannuation, however the department’s Collective Agreement for 2012 is currently being negotiated.

Upon successful completion of the program in December you will be permanently appointed and your salary level will increase to an APS4.  Further information on The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Collective Agreement 2009 - 11 can be found under applicant information.

13. What is the potential for further promotional opportunities?
At the completion of the graduate year you are encouraged to apply for further promotion as appropriate opportunities arise. After their initial training year it is common for our graduates to move to higher positions earning increased salaries within 12 months, based on merit.

14. How does the ‘buddy’ system work?
Each graduate will be allocated a buddy prior to starting the program – a former graduate who has been working with the department for 1-2 years. You will meet your buddy at an informal BBQ in the week prior to commencing the program. Your buddy will introduce you to your supervisor, assist you finding your way around the departmental building and generally act as a point of contact for any problems or queries you may have.

15. What’s involved in the security clearance and medical examination?
You will need to be cleared to the Secret level and this will involve an ASIO and a police records character check. The medical examination is undertaken by Health Services Australia and they will determine if you are medical fit to undertake an APS position. Failure to receive or maintain a secret clearance may jeopordise your employment.

16. What is involved in the recruitment process?
Applications for our program are completed online.  Applications are generally open from early March to mid April each year.  Applications will then be shortlisted and approximately 300 candidates will be invited to complete an online written exercise in early May.  From the results of the written test approximately 200 candidates will be invited to attend assessment sessions that will be held nationally, during June, and involve a group exercise and interview conducted by senior departmental staff.  See the graduate page for further information.

17. When do I find out if I have been successful?
The Department is aiming to advise applicants of their outcome/result by the end of July.
 
18. Do I get feedback from my participation in the GDP Recruitment Process?
Yes. Feedback will be made available at the completion of the recruitment process for both successful and unsuccessful candidates. Feedback will be conducted via a telephone call at an agreed date and time. If your circumstances change and you cannot meet your agreed time please contact us as soon as possible to allow us to reschedule a new time.


19. For further information:

Last reviewed:
29 Apr 2011
Contact:
Email People and Service Delivery
About People and Service Delivery and Contact details
Media Inquiries