DFAT Graduate Program 2027: Australian Government Graduate Opportunity

Overview

The DFAT Graduate Program 2027 was an 18-month program run by Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for graduates interested in international relations, foreign policy, trade, development, economics, public policy, corporate services and technology. Applications for the 2027 intake have closed, and interested candidates can register interest for the 2028 program to be notified when applications open.

Participants join an ongoing, full-time Australian Public Service role starting at APS4 and moving to APS5 on completion, with four placements across the program and a choice of the Corporate or Policy stream. Commencement was February 2027. The Corporate stream can include accounting and financial management, human resources, diplomatic security, strategic communications, ICT, corporate law, passport services, and consular and crisis management. The Policy stream can include bilateral relations, trade negotiations, economic analysis, development and aid programmes, international security, cyber security, international law and public diplomacy.

What you get

The starting salary was 84,115 dollars plus 15.4 percent superannuation, rising to 92,753 dollars plus 15.4 percent superannuation at completion. Benefits include targeted training, Diplomatic Academy training, professional networks, flexible working and generous leave.

Who can apply

Applicants had to be Australian citizens at the time of application and to have completed at least a Bachelor's degree between 1 January 2022 and 31 December 2026. A Negative Vetting Level 2 security clearance had to be obtained before starting. Overseas qualifications may need Australian recognition. Candidates could apply from overseas, but the vetting interview is held in Australia and overseas candidates return at their own expense.

The Corporate stream drew on fields such as finance, accounting, business, human resources, marketing, ICT and engineering, while the Policy stream welcomed international relations, law, economics, social sciences, public policy, journalism, languages and STEM graduates, among others.