Why choose the public sector?
Who works in the public sector?
Making a difference
Work/life balance
Competitive salaries and generous leave entitlements
Professional development
Who works in the public sector?
The public sector is broad and varied, with a range of graduate roles available, including as lawyers, scientists, marketing professionals, engineers, accountants, IT specialists, human resources officers, and public relations officers. Most government departments actively seek graduates from a range of disciplines for their graduate departments.
Roles across the public sector are filled on merit, which means that you will be assessed on your skills, abilities and experience and how well they meet the requirements of the job, compared to other applicants.
Making a difference
The public service implements the policies of government and provides information and services to support policy decisions. By working in the public sector graduates are working for the community, and many cite their desire to make a difference and contribute as a reason to choose a career in the public service.
Work/life balance
Government agencies recognise that there is more to life than work. They make it a priority to create and emphasise a healthy work/life balance for all staff, and promote family-friendly policies. Public sector employees have the option of flexible working hours, part-time work, job sharing, working from home and a range of other working arrangements. Parents returning to work and those with carer commitments are supported.
Competitive salaries and generous leave entitlements
Jobs in the public sector offer highly competitive salaries that are often well above the rate graduates can expect from roles in the private sector. Most graduates can expect to start on a salary of around $40,000. Positions in the public sector are generally categorised according to a graded career structure that rewards performance, which means that graduates are able to progress up the career ladder to higher salary grades. Comprehensive leave provisions often include parents leave, study leave and compassionate leave.
Professional development
Most graduate programs in government involve structured rotations that allow graduates to experience different roles and functions in a range of areas. As a public sector graduate, you are able to broaden your skills and knowledge base, which in turn increases your marketability and helps your career progression.