Digital Cadet Program (May 2023)

Overview

The Digital Cadet Program aims to attract digital talent to the public service by supporting their studies and giving them practical skills. The program provides a unique opportunity for participants to experience a wide range of digital roles and disciplines and helps them decide on their digital career path. 

The program is for Australian citizens who are currently studying for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in a digital or technology-related field. If you're a student looking to launch your digital or technical career in government, this program could be for you. Roles are available across the public service in a variety of participating agencies.

On-the-job support, career guidance and professional development throughout the program will grow you into a job-ready public servant. You will contribute to the meaningful work of the Australian Government.

Who can apply?

To be eligible to apply for the Digital Cadet Program, applicants must be Australian citizens. Applicants must have completed one year or the equivalent of a digital or technical degree at the commencement of the program. They must also have a minimum of 1 year of study remaining when the program starts.

See the full list of eligible degree programs by clicking Digital Cadet Program on the applications page.

What is on offer?

The Digital Cadet Program offers:

• Industry experience while you finish studying
• Competitive salary for flexible part-time hours around your class timetable
• Reimbursement for your university fees if you pass (up to $800 per subject)
• Potential credit towards your degree
• Guaranteed permanent employment when you finish your degree

You’ll work a minimum of 2 days per week around your university classes while you complete your degree. 

What are we looking for from you?

• Commitment to undertaking 2 days equivalent of work per week and actively participating in all aspects of the program
• Curiosity, aptitude and interest in digital disciplines and a desire to build on your skills
• An interest in undertaking meaningful work serving the Australian community
• Contribution to a professional, respectful and positive workplace
• Compliance with all public service values including relevant secrecy and privacy laws if applicable
• A commitment to looking after your health and well-being to achieve a healthy work/study/life balance

What locations is the program running in?

Darwin, Newcastle and Townsville. You'll work from an APS Academy Campus at a university in your preferred location.

Please note that applications to work at our Newcastle campus close on February 19. Applications to work at our Darwin or Townsville campuses close on March 19.

Where could I work?

The program offers a range of roles across a number of government departments and agencies.

Your application will be considered for all participating agencies and your preferences taken into account. Successful applicants will be placed with an agency that suits their skills, experience and career aspirations.

Previous successful applicants have been placed in the following agencies:

• Services Australia
• Australian Signals Directorate
• Department of Education and Employment Services
• Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources
• Department of Finance
• Department of Defence

Selection process

There are three stages of the selection process.

Step 1: Submit your application at the provided link. You'll be advised whether you have progressed to the next stage.

Step 2: Attend an online interview with the selection panel.

Step 3: Meet with participating agencies. At this stage, you can nominate your preferred placement. At the end of the process, you'll be placed with an agency based on your skills and experience and their operational needs.

If you're not successful at a particular stage, we'll let you know by email and provide feedback as soon as possible.