Job Description

Australian Department of Finance – Cairns QLD

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Applications for the 2027 Career Starter Program intake are open now! If you have graduated year 12 in 2025 or will be graduating in 2026.

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TheAustralian Government Career Starter Program is a 12-month program that helps you start your career in government.

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You work full-time in a permanent role and earn a competitive salary. You also receive paid leave and superannuation.

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You gain hands on experience while working in an Australian Government department and agency. The program is well-established and builds strong skills for your future career.

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What the program offers

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work full-time in a permanent APS1 role in a participating department or agency

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study towards a Certificate IV in Government or a Certificate IV in Human Resource Management while you work

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receive support from a dedicated supervisor and team

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attend networking events with other Career Starters across government

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have the prospect to advance to the APS2 level after you complete the program successfully.

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Who can apply

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To be eligible, you must:

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have completed Year 12 or equivalent qualification in the current or previous year

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be an Australian citizen

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undergo security and police checks.

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You only need to submit one application. You can be considered for one of two work streams:

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Government roles

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In a generalist government role, you may work in areas such as:

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- Customer service: Respond to enquiries, support facilities, and engage with the public.
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- Programs and policy: Help manage training calendars, handle correspondence, and support executive functions.
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- Technical support: Assist with IT infrastructure, procurement, and communication with suppliers.
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While working,



you will complete a Certificate IV in Government. This qualification builds your understanding of public sector operations, ethics, and legislation.

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Human Resources roles

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In a Human Resources role, you support key HR functions across the Australian Public Service. These roles help you build strong foundational skills. You may assist with:

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- HR initiatives: Support learning and development, wellbeing programs, and policy communication.
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- HR policy and procedures: Respond to basic enquiries and follow established HR processes.
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- Recruitment and governance: Help coordinate interviews, support committees, and prepare documents.
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- Administration tasks: Complete corporate data entry, manage inboxes, and maintain records.
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You will also complete aCertificate IV in Human Resource Management. This helps you learn about recruitment, performance management, and employee relations.

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Diversity and inclusion

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We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We value the different skills and perspectives that people bring.

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We strongly encourage applications from:

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people with disability

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If you need adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know.

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Participating agencies

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- Department of Education
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- Department of Industry, Science and Resources
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- Australian Centre for Disease Control
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- Australian Public Service Commission
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- Treasury
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- Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
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- Department of Social ServicesAustralian Taxation Office
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- Department of Defence
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- Department of Finance
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Contact us

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If you have questions about the Career Starter Program, contact the program team on 02 6215 1*** or email***************@finance.gov.au

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📌 Career Starter Program (Cairns Regional)
🏢 Australian Department of Finance
📍 Cairns Regional