Here at the Department of Human Services (DHS), we strive to deliver modern programs, services and policy that strengthen communities and enable South Australians to actively participate in community life. With people at the heart of what we do and a commitment to child safety, ageing well and supporting people with disability, we work to increase inclusion, independence and decision-making, and help our communities when it matters most.

About the Business

Our Organisational Development and Learning team provides expertise in learning, development and recruitment to strengthen our workforce, uplift organisational capability and improve the employee experience. They collaborate with business areas to ensure initiatives align with departmental priorities, are backed by data and support staff to deliver services to the South Australian community.

Role Details

Multiple Positions Available (Allied Health Talent Pool)

Be part of a team that drives inclusion initiatives for the state. This is an exciting opportunity for career development, develop your allied health career through supported rotations, professional development and hands-on practice. This is a contracted role up to 2 years - Launch your graduate career with DHS! Join our 2027 Graduate Program and help all South Australians to thrive.

What we offer

The Graduate Program is a rewarding way to kick-start your Allied Health Professional career. You will have opportunities to make a difference in the lives of South Australians while working on a range of programs, interventions, and support services to deliver vital community services and social justice. Through a structured rotational program, you will gain experience across different teams and areas of the department, aligned with your qualifications, interests and career pathway. These rotations will provide exposure to diverse work environments, broaden your skills and knowledge, and help you build a strong foundation for your future career.

As a DHS Graduate, you will:

- begin your career with a 2-year employment contract, commencing in February 2027

- participate in structured professional development and training courses throughout the program, including AHP specific training

- gain experience across different roles relevant to your qualification and career pathway, via regular rotations

- build your professional network and to connect with fellow graduates and early career professionals

- develop skills that will accelerate your long-term career.

Our employee benefits include:

- annual salary increases within your pay range, subject to satisfactory performance

- public sector leave entitlements, in addition to annual and sick leave

- flexible working arrangements

- superannuation with member benefits

- discounted gym and health facilities membership through Fitness Passport.

Who we're looking for

We're looking for Allied Health Professional graduates with passion and integrity, who:

- are committed to improving outcomes for individuals,



families and communities

- approach challenges with strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills

- are adaptable, curious and eager to learn

- work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams

- communicate clearly and effectively with a range of people

- apply evidence-informed and best practice approaches when working with clients and communities

- manage competing priorities and meet deadlines

- demonstrate analytical and reporting skills

- value diversity and demonstrate cultural sensitivity and responsiveness.

Our AHP graduates work across many different areas across the department, including Aboriginal Practice and Partnerships, Community and Justice, Office for Ageing Well, Safer Family Services, and Disability Services. You can find out more about these areas by reading the `Available Roles and Career Pathways - AHP 2027 intake' document attached on this job advertisement.

Eligibility

- undergraduate or post degree qualification obtained within the last three years from a registered university, which enables eligibility for full Australian registration or membership with the relevant allied health professional body

- you are an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or have an appropriate visa that allows you to work in Australia.

- you have not previously completed a graduate program within, or hosted by, the South Australian Public Sector

- you have completed an eligible degree in the allied health stream, listed within the attached `How to apply - AHP' document.

About DHS

Our purpose is to make a difference, so South Australia thrives. We do this through service delivery, grants and funding for youth justice, disability accommodation, cost of living concessions and rebates, employment-related screening, and family safety and support. We also lead important government reforms in disability inclusion, intensive family support services and women's equality and safety.

How to apply

- check your eligibility and follow the application process set in the below `how to apply' documents

- you can submit your application via the Careers Portal

- prepare a resume of no more than three pages and a two-page cover letter with your response to below questions. Use examples from your work, studies, or volunteering experiences to illustrate your answers.

1. What attracted you to apply for the DHS Graduate Program?

2. How do your personal values align with the core work that DHS delivers to the South Australian community?

3. What are the three biggest strengths that you bring to the DHS Graduate Program?





- provide at least two referees in your current resume, with at least one being your current or most recent manager.

- provide a copy of your parchment or academic transcript (an unofficial transcript is fine if you are in the final year of your studies)

- provide a copy of your Visa and/or VEVO check, if applicable

- please view our Job Application Guide to help you prepare your application

- eligible candidates will be invited to participate in an in person or online interview and case study or presentation

- if your application is successful, you will receive a contract offer in December 2026.

Please ensure to submit all the required documents, as delays in providing these may result in your application not being considered. Use of AI tools to prepare your application.

We understand that you may use AI to prepare your application, and that's okay. What is important however, is that you are honest in the information you provide. We also want you to be your authentic self by demonstrating your values, skills, and understanding of the role.

Special Conditions

- National Police Check required.

- Employment-related Screening Check required.

- Some out of hours work may be required.

- Some interstate and intrastate travel may be required.

Additional Information

You are required to submit a cover letter, up to a maximum of 2 pages, addressing how your skills, experience and capabilities align with the role description. You are also required to provide three work referees, one of whom must be your recent line manager, and attach your current resume via the online application form. For further information and how to apply for this role please visit our DHS website www.dhs.sa.gov.au/careers

Enquiries to:
Enrique Miller
Phone: 0435 076 ***
Email: ***************@sa.gov.au

Diversity and Inclusion

DHS is committed to making our services and workplaces safe and inclusive for all people and ensuring the full diversity of the communities we serve are represented in our workforce, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability and/or neurodivergence, young people, older people, culturally and linguistically diverse people, LGBTIQA+ and gender diverse people.

We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a positive, barrier-free recruitment process. If you require assistance with this process, please contact us at **************@sa.gov.au and a member of the team will get back to you.

The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working, including part time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss versatile working arrangements for this role.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply. We also celebrate the many strengths and skills people with disability and/or neurodivergent people bring to our workplace and acknowledge our role in ensuring a supportive work environment for people with disability and/or neurodivergent people to thrive in.

📌 Graduate Practitioner (Adelaide)
🏢 Department of Human Services
📍 Adelaide