Diversity at DFAT
The department recognises the importance of valuing diversity and is committed to improving and sustaining employment outcomes for First Nations peoples. As a department that represents Australia to the world, we strive to have a workforce reflective of the diversity of the Australian population.
We value the talents and skills of people of diverse cultural backgrounds and support culturally inclusive recruitment practices. We encourage all First Nations peoples to apply for vacancies with the department. Additional cultural, ceremonial and NAIDOC leave is available for First Nations peoples. There are also mentor and buddy programs available with First National DFAT officers.
For more information on the department's diversity and inclusion program, strategies and plans, our Indigenous Employees Network and Inclusion Champions, please visit the DFAT Careers page.
Confirmation of First Nations heritage
To be successful for the cadet program, you will be required to provide evidence to confirm you are a First Nations Australian. This evidence may be provided as part of your application or at a later stage of the recruitment process. Acceptable evidence includes:
a letter signed and executed by the Chairperson of an incorporated First Nations organisation confirming you are recognised as a First Nations person; or
a confirmation of First Nations descent form executed by a First Nations organisation; or
two statutory declarations confirming you are a First Nations Australian. The first declaration must be completed by you, and the second declaration can be completed by an Indigenous Service Provider (e.g. a University Support Unit or an Indigenous Medical Service) or an APS employee, who is also a First Nations Australian.
About the department
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) serves as Australia's foreign service, leading and coordinating the nation's international agenda by engaging with foreign governments and organisations to advance strategic, security, and economic interests. From Australia and across our overseas posts, we cultivate relationships and networks to provide strategic insights, deliver international development and humanitarian assistance, lead on crisis response and offer consular and passport services.
Working at DFAT is a vocation where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to do meaningful work and represent Australia's interests globally. With a focus on learning and development, backed by our leading-edge Diplomatic Academy, DFAT offers a diverse range of career paths within a supportive environment. Staff have the chance to engage in international deployments while contributing to efforts both at home and abroad.
DFAT fosters a high-performance culture driven by a resilient, motivated, and diverse workforce committed to serving the country. Upholding APS Values, we prioritise achievement, leadership, valuing people, and collaboration. Our strength lies in diversity, which enables us to find common ground as we work with people around the world to solve complex global issues.
DFAT is an inclusive workplace, both in Australia and across the global network, committed to embracing and projecting the diversity of the Australian community, striving to create safe work environments where staff are respected and valued, and everyone has equitable access to opportunities, and dedicated to achieving the objectives outlined in DFAT's Inclusion, Equity and Diversity Strategy.
DFAT offers attractive conditions of service, as outlined in DFAT's 2024 Enterprise Agreement, including a competitive remuneration package with 15.4% employer contribution to your superannuation, 22 days annual leave every 12 months, 20 days of personal / carers leave credited upon commencement, attractive parental leave benefits and flexible working environments.
About the program
No matter your interest, whether it's in foreign affairs, international development, corporate management, national security, trade and investment and much more, DFAT cadet program will prepare you for a rich and rewarding career. DFAT's Cadet Program offers a unique pathway into a meaningful and globally focused career. As a cadet, you'll continue your studies while gaining practical experience across a range of streams, and services that support Australians around the world. You'll learn from a high performing, diverse workforce and access professional development through the Diplomatic Academy.
On successful completion, you'll secure a permanent APS4 role in DFAT, opening the door to a dynamic career in Australia and the possibility of future overseas postings. Few departments offer the same combination of national impact, international exposure and long-term career growth.
During the 12-month - maximum 36-month program, you will undertake placements within the department which focus on developing your fundamental Australian Public Service (APS) skillset. You will also develop first-hand experience working in DFAT's trade, advocacy and operational spheres. You will be provided with:
An ongoing position, commencing at an APS 3 classification and advancing to an APS 4 classification upon completion of the program.
A fulltime salary of $75,065 (pro rata based on hours worked), increasing up to $84,115 on successful completion of the program.
15.4% superannuation.
Access to compete your working hours in a DFAT state and territory office or Canberra. (NB: travel to attend a DFAT office during the program would be at the expense of the Cadet.)
Access to relocation provisions to Canberra following the successful completion of the program.
The Cadet program requires:
In-person attendance within Canberra and/or State and Territory office.
Successful completion of a 12-month probationary period, with a 6 months review.
Active participation in the performance management process - maintaining a performing well throughout each placement.
Complete all mandatory training and development activities. This includes the targeted training guide and support to develop APS skills.
Maintain a satisfactory level of performance, attendance and conduct during the program.
Complete at least a minimum of 600 hours work per annum over the 12-36 month program.
o Flexible work arrangements are available to support completion of a bachelor's degree.
o The number of hours and working pattern will be agreed between the Cadet and their supervisor. (e.g. during semester breaks, several hours a week, two days a month etc).
o The program will be a minimum of 12 months but can extend to a maximum of 36 months to allow completion of bachelor qualifications.
Completion of a bachelor level degree.
On completion of the cadetship, you will:
Will be placed into a permanent position with DFAT at the APS4 level.
If relocation to Canberra is required, the department will assist with relocation costs.
Opportunities to apply for overseas service throughout your career.
Opportunities to apply for domestic placement in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Hobart, Melbourne and Sydney State Officers.
Indigenous Cadetship
You will work to support the department to deliver on its key priorities by:
Liaising with industry groups in the state to promote Australian interests
Building connections with state government representatives
Reaching out to state ministries
Being a conduit for international embassies
Being involved in public diplomacy activities to further DFAT's strategic objectives
Possible work areas (rotations):
State office
o Foreign Policy
o International Trade
o Corporate
o Passports
Canberra office
o Foreign Policy
o Development Assistance
o International Trade
o Legal
o Consular
o Corporate
o International security
o Bilateral desk
Who we are looking for
We are looking for First Nations students, currently undertaking tertiary degree study in any discipline, who are seeking to grow their professional experience across a broad range of sectors.
Successful applicants would develop their understanding of public sector administration, foreign policy and trade, public diplomacy, international development, and corporate processes, as they further Australia's interests domestically and overseas.
It is important our cadets have good time management and communication skills, can work collaboratively with others, manage relationships, have curiosity, drive and accountability. We also look for people who are respectful, adaptable, have resilience, and, able to problem-solve through analytical thinking.
All employees of the department are expected to abide by the APS Values and Code of Conduct and the DFAT Values Statement.
Further information about the department can be found in the supporting documents provided with the Applicant Information Pack in the job advertisement.
General information about recruitment at the department is available in Frequently Asked Questions.
Eligibility Requirements
This Affirmative Measures (Indigenous) process is open only to First Nations peoples who meet the criteria below. The filling of this vacancy is intended to constitute an affirmative measure under Section 31 of the Australian Public Service Commissioner's Directions 2022.
. click apply for full job details
