Name: Ian Pastega
Age: 25
Qualifications: Bachelor of Arts (French/Italian)
LLB (University of New England)
Tertiary institution:
University of New England
Position: Indigenous Coordination Officer, HR Branch
Employer: Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
As a Graduate at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, I was employed in three rotations in the Food Processing in Regional Australia Programme, People Development Team, and the Farm Business Programme. A year out of the programme, I’m employed as the Indigenous Coordination Officer. My role involves recruiting Indigenous Cadets and Trainees, as well as implementing the Department’s Indigenous Employment Strategy and Reconciliation Action Plan.
Having a law degree gives you great flexibility when looking for a job. The generic skills obtained in such a degree are easily transferred to many working environments, creating many opportunities in diverse fields.
I believe the research and analytical skills that a law degree facilitates were an important factor in my employment. Furthermore, the ability to work successfully in a team environment or unsupervised was also significant. I have found my knowledge of administrative and contract law to be extremely beneficial while working in the public service.
My law degree has given me the confidence and the tools with which to pursue many different fields of interest so I see the opportunities for me as endless. Returning to the legal realm is always a possibility but for the moment I am enjoying my work with the Department of Agriculture and the challenges it provides.
A day in the life
9am
Usually work for me starts around 8 am. On arriving, I check my emails and run through the jobs that need to be done for the day. I read through some of the papers and check the media monitor for any significant developments in the Agriculture portfolio.
10am
My current role in Indigenous Recruitment requires extensive liaison with potential employees, current employees, Department management teams and other federal agencies. Monitoring the progress of new starters, talking with potential applicants and giving advice takes up a considerable part of my day.
11am
Throughout the Graduate Program, training and development days were frequently attended. These included core public service skills courses such as ministerial writing and Department systems training, together with other more generic courses including leadership and teamwork workshops.
Midday
Most days, lunch is had outside with the other graduates. The graduate group provides a fantastic network of friends, which makes the transition into the workplace all the more easy and enjoyable.
1pm
Team meetings are held after lunch every Monday. This provides an opportunity to discuss work to be completed in the coming week, the movements of staff and hot issues affecting the Department.
2pm
While work can be extremely busy, there is ample opportunity to participate in other Department activities. Getting involved with activities helps keep a good work/life balance.
3pm
In a team of graduates we complete industry projects. For one hour a week during this period we meet to discuss the progress of the project and delegate work. This is a significant development opportunity for graduates.
4pm
Afternoons are usually spent tidying up files and making sure that sensitive material is appropriately stored. Answering calls and assisting with project management is ongoing.
5pm
Work usually finishes around five most days. The Department has flexible working hours, which allows you to complete your workload at times that are more convenient to your lifestyle.
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