The Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources (DISER) is leading the inaugural intake of the Australian Public Service (APS) Graduate Development Program’s STEM stream. Successful applicants will be able to undertake STEM-related graduate roles in 2021 within DISER, as well as other APS departments and agencies.

The STEM stream is a new and specialised stream within the APS Graduate Development Program aimed at university undergraduates with qualifications in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) who are interested in a career in the APS.

The 12-month program provides on-the-job learning, formal training and networking opportunities. In 2020 (for 2021 intake), the multiple streams for which graduates can apply include:

• Generalist stream: accepting graduates with qualifications in all disciplines of study;
• Professional services streams: accepting graduates with qualifications in ICT, finance, law,
  
  communications/marketing, and human resources; and
• STEM stream: accepting graduates with qualifications in science, technology, engineering
  
  and mathematics (STEM).

Australia’s Chief Scientist, Dr Alan Finkel, is a strong advocate for people with study and careers in STEM fields working within the APS because he understands the value that STEM-trained people bring to an issue.

Participants in the APS Graduate Program sometimes have opportunity to work in the Office of the Chief Scientist as part of their rotation.

"If you love science and science communication, working at the Office of the Chief Scientist is the place for you! Lots of interesting projects and programs to work on, not to mention you are working with a great team."- Howie, 2020 Participant in APS Graduate Program

“I had a fantastic time at the OCS working with passionate and friendly people who made my transition into the Public Service easier than I predicted. It was never a struggle for me to come into work each day as there was always something new to learn and I was involved in the diversity of work that the OCS does. I was exposed to Australia’s work on synthetic biology, hydrogen and improving STEM skills across the population.”- Clarissa, 2019 Participant in APS Graduate Program

The new APS Graduate Program’s STEM stream complements the Chief Scientist’s own initiative, the Australian Science Policy Fellowship Pilot Program which gives Australian scientists the opportunity to work in a Commonwealth government department for one year.

The Science Policy Fellows have been extremely positive about their experience within the APS, and the opportunity to contribute their STEM skills to the development of public policy. One Fellow reflected :

“This experience in the Fellows program has shown me how collaborative government is, and the value of being in a team where everyone is genuinely trying to do their best.”

Together, the APS Graduate Development Program’s STEM stream and the Australian Science Policy Fellowship Pilot Program will grow the diversity of expertise in the Australian Public Service workforce.

You can watch this video about the Graduate Development Program to find out more. Online applications are now open and will close 6 May 2020. Apply now here.