Frequently Asked Questions
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The ICT graduate recruitment process
What does the selection process involve?
Applicants complete an online application, which contains your academic results and claims against the selection criteria. Successful applicants are short listed for an interview and work sample test. This is the final stage of the process before offers are made.
Will I need to provide my resume as part of my application?
You will not be required to provide your resume as part of your application. There are parts of the online application where you can provide details of your qualifications and previous employment.
When and where will you be conducting interviews?
We aim to conduct interviews during the latter part of June and during July. You will be notified via email of the progress of your application through each stage of the process. Interviews will be conducted in the major capital cities where feasible and by telephone/video conferencing for those in regional Australia or overseas.
When will you be making offers to successful applicants?
We expect to be able to make offers from late August.
What skills and qualifications are you looking for?
We are looking for applicants with knowledge of application development processes as well as general skills such as communication, teamwork, research and analytical skills and an interest in the immigration portfolio. What is important is that you have further developed some of these skills during your time at university. You must have successfully completed a minimum three year undergraduate degree in an ICT discipline, by December this year.
Can I apply for the ICT Graduate Development Program if I am not an Australian Citizen?
Australian Citizenship is a condition which applies to all employment in the Australian Public Service, including graduate positions. Applicants must be granted Australian citizenship prior to the start of the Program.
I graduated a while ago, am I eligible to apply for the program?
Yes, however ICT professional positions are at entry level. If you have not graduated recently and have relevant workforce experience, you may still apply for the Program, however you may also be suitable for other vacancies within the department. These are advertised online at
See: DIAC Online Recruitment System
I obtained my qualification overseas, will it be recognised?
If your degree is from an overseas university, it must be recognised by the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (NOOSR). NOOSR can be contacted by:
Telephone: 1800 020 086
Website: www.dest.gov.au/noosr
Commencement of employment
When does the Program commence?
The program generally commences in early February, however there may be opportunities to commence earlier. The application form will ask you to nominate if you are available to start working earlier.
If I move from interstate to take up a position in Canberra does the department pay for my relocation expenses?
The department has a relocation assistance policy for graduates who relocate from interstate to Canberra. As part of the relocation assistance, the department may pay or reimburse you for a number of items including, but not necessarily limited to:
- the removal of your personal belongings
- temporary accommodation for a limited time while you are finding permanent accommodation in Canberra
- a one way economy airfare or motor vehicle allowance.
There are limits in terms of how much assistance is provided and the relocation assistance policy is not designed to necessarily compensate for all of your relocation expenses.
What training is offered during the first year?
The first year aims to provide many learning opportunities both on the job and through three formal blocks of training spread throughout the year.
General facts and figures
How many ICT graduates does the Department take?
The department has previously accepted between 10–15 ICT graduates at our National Office in Canberra.
Do you have age limits for applicants?
No. We encourage students of all ages to apply provided they have or will have Australian Citizenship.