Defence Graduates share their stories, program experiences and exciting career journeys.
Symon
Remote and Autonomous Systems Cell, Navy Engineering, Technical Pathway
Degree qualification: Bachelor of Engineering (Honours).
The Graduate Program has been fantastic. I’m currently working in the Civilian Engineering Development Program (CEDP) on my second rotation.
The rotations I’ve experienced provide a mix of systems engineering work and technical engineering practice like Software Development. The CEDP Program offers a wide range of exposure to become a more knowledgeable and skilled engineer. This is important to shape future leaders for Defence. It’s also given me more in-depth experience in the technical DNE Group.
The Graduate Program has flexibility to choose how you can shape your career and experiences. There are so many opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge. It’s helped me learn more about other Defence Groups like CASG, NSSG, GWEO, and DST, and industry partners.
The work culture and environment is relaxed, and offers a good amount of meaningful work.
I encourage future grads to reach out to as many people as you can, build connections. You’re only a graduate for 12 months, so take as many opportunities as possible to learn new things.
The Graduate Program is a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself professionally at Defence while having the flexibility of rotating between different areas. I now have solid foundations in both technical and soft engineering skills so I can transition smoothly into my future role.
Baillie
CFO Office, Policy and Corporate Pathway
Degree qualification: Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance).
I was drawn to the structure of the Graduate Program and the opportunity to explore different work areas and understand my strengths.
I was also excited by the various opportunities to learn more about the Australian Defence Force side through the immersive graduate experiences.
So far, I have really enjoyed my experience in the Graduate Program. I’ve met so many people, had great rotations with Defence Finance Group (DFG), and built valuable connections with my teams.
I was fortunate enough to go on several military base tours which I really enjoyed. It was interesting to learn what they do and how the rest of Defence contributes. It was also a fantastic opportunity to network with graduates from different streams and cities.
I knew that Defence had one of the biggest graduate cohorts, but I was still surprised at the number of people who had moved here from all over Australia. I’ve been here for 9 months, and I am still meeting new people.
It’s important to be part of a program like this because you can learn so much more and work on a variety of projects by being part of 3 different teams. Networking is key in the APS, and the Program has provided me with many opportunities to do this within Defence. This has set me up for my future career in DFG.
I’ve developed strong relationships with graduates in my rotations and the broader DFG team. I encourage all future graduates and STEM cadets to make an effort to get to know their team and say yes to literally everything.
Make the most of your graduate year, be proactive, get involved, and don’t just sit back and wait for things to happen.
Isabella
Military Legal Branch, Defence Legal, Technical Pathway
Degree qualification: Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Arts, Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice.
I applied for the Graduate Program because I wanted to contribute to protecting national security and Australia’s humanitarian efforts.
My experience in the program has been extremely rewarding. I’ve had many networking, personal development and learning opportunities. I’ve worked across multiple legal teams, including employment law, discretionary claims, and international law. These diverse experiences have challenged my skill set.
I was most surprised by how many opportunities graduates are presented with. So far, I’ve attended overnight excursions on military bases across Australia and conferences with International Delegates. This gave me fantastic networking and leadership skills.
The program helps you begin your professional career with confidence and gives you a breadth of knowledge and understanding of different areas of law.
This experience helped me form better connections in the workplace and learn about areas of Defence Legal that I may not have previously considered. I’ve connected with people that I may not have otherwise met and attended conferences that are usually reserved for senior team members.
I’m fortunate to have worked alongside wonderful mentors who have inspired me to work toward a more senior legal position.
After I complete the program, I hope to become a Legal Officer in Defence Legal and practise as a Lawyer.
My advice to a future graduate is to take every opportunity and step out of your comfort zone. Try vastly different rotations to get a wide range of knowledge and experience.
I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to expand their skills and gain opportunities for personal and professional development. The greatest benefit of the program is the support you receive and the connections you make.
Renee
Data and Information Law, General Counsel Defence, Defence Legal Branch, Technical Pathway
Degree qualification: Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Psychological Science, Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice.
I applied for Defence’s Graduate Program to engage in interesting and impactful work, and for the diverse range of projects.
Defence Legal is like a law firm because it gives you the opportunity to explore a broad range of legal areas. This aligned with my desire to get diverse legal experience and expertise across multiple areas of law.
I completed the Graduate Program in mid-2023, and since then, I have been practising as a lawyer in Defence Legal which I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. I work with a collaborative team and learn from senior lawyers, which allows me to continuously expand my skill set.
I was surprised by how quickly the 18-month program flew by. I was grateful for Defence’s openness and receptiveness to graduates. I engaged with interesting and enriching work from day one.
Being part of a program like the Defence Graduate Program is important because it offers the chance to explore various areas within Defence. This exposure helped me to deepen my understanding of Defence while identifying my interests and strengths. It’s a valuable opportunity for both personal and professional growth.
One piece of advice I would give to a future graduate is to embrace every opportunity to learn and network. Engage with your colleagues, seek feedback, and be open to exploring different areas at Defence. This will help you to enhance your skills and discover your passions and strengths.
This experience showed me that I can build a fulfilling career at Defence from the many diverse opportunities available.
Harkirat
Electro-Optic Sensing and Electronic Warfare, Sensors and Effectors Division, Research and Innovation Pathway
Degree qualification: Bachelor of Materials Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Biomedical Science.
I was drawn to the research and innovation pathway for its problem-solving nature, where I can think critically and challenge myself. This program has given me a unique opportunity to work in an interactive and dynamic environment that uses advanced technology.
I have really enjoyed my work area, I’ve had engaging and challenging tasks and worked on my interpersonal skills. I’ve also had the exciting opportunity to participate in work trials, giving me exposure to different work environments and teams.
One aspect of the program that I found surprising was the flexibility to maintain a healthy work-life balance. I get to work on projects that align with my interests, and I enjoy the flexibility of managing my time and workload in a way that suits me.
It’s been a great way to explore different skillsets and experience a wide range of work across Defence. It also given me the opportunity to work with professionals from diverse backgrounds. I’ve learned new techniques and approaches and broadened my perspective.
This experience has inspired me to continue studying and expand my knowledge in the field.
The program has taught me the power of asking questions. It’s one of the best and most efficient ways to learn, and I recommend any new cadets and graduates to continue to ask questions. Many people will be more than happy to help or direct you to the right people or resources. Ultimately, asking questions helps expand your knowledge and build meaningful relationships.
Humdeep
Digital Transformation Office, Land System Division
Degree qualification: Bachelor of Information Technology – Software Development.
As part of the Technical pathway in the Graduate Program, I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to work with different domains and explore unique skill areas.
All 3 rotations have been great, and each in a different domain. I’ve worked with a contractor team, Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG), and in Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG)’s Governance team for Defence capability.
A highlight for me has been the opportunity to travel for work and develop new skills. I’ve explored opportunities to expand my skills into areas that initially seemed beyond my capability. I’ve been able to look beyond my original career goals and see other opportunities in Defence.
Working with Defence has enhanced my understanding of Defence policies and procedures, various groups such as CASG and DSTG, and their role and responsibility in developing and sustaining Defence capability.
I encourage all graduates to enjoy each rotation and embrace any upcoming opportunity, whether a small task or interstate travel.
Aashka
Soldier Modernisation Systems Program Office, Integrated Soldier Systems Branch, Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Industry Based Learning Undergraduate Program
Degree qualification: Bachelor of Business Information Technology (Professional).
I'm part of the Industry Based Learning (IBL Undergraduate) Program. I was attracted to this program for the range of experiences it offers. I’ve developed my project management and logistics skills while building networks with key stakeholders. The ability to study at university and learn theory, while simultaneously applying it throughout the program has been so valuable.
The program has been very rewarding. I love what I do because it’s exactly what I’m studying. I let my team know that I’m majoring in Business Technology, and they provide me with training opportunities to upskill in the relevant project software. I’m constantly learning and growing from the experiences my team provides for me.
I was really surprised by the flexibility of the program. I can tailor my work methods and hours to what works for me. The IBL Program doesn’t discriminate the work standards between ongoing APS employees and undergraduates. This makes the work environment even more fulfilling.
I would 100% recommend this program to other students considering entering the workforce. It is so important to have industry practice knowledge while studying. I get to learn everything I want and am accepted by my colleagues. Because of my placement experience, my grades at university have improved.
Throughout my career, I see myself rising up to be a successful Project Manager. This program has allowed me to collaborate and network with a variety of Project Managers and immerse myself in project operations. Equipped with this knowledge, I’m confident I’ll be hired after my degree and bring industry skills to my next role.
My supervisor always tells me to train and upskill as much as possible. My advice to other graduates would be to utilise your resources and try everything. Even if you don’t like it in the end, there is no consequence, it’s all a learning process. Take advantage of the materials you get and don’t stop growing.
Andrew
Commercial, Aerospace Combat Systems Branch, Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Technical Pathway
Degree qualification: Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Government and International Relations.
I applied for this role as Defence has locations all over Australia, and I thought this would be an awesome opportunity to see and experience some great places, which it has been.
The Technical pathway’s Commercial Stream gave me experience in procurement and contracting across a wide variety of Defence areas.
My experience in the Grad Program has been really positive. I’ve learned so much and have grown in confidence. This confidence allowed me to apply for and land an APS6 position upon completing the program. This process has been a challenge, but well worth it.
I was surprised by the number of graduates that remain in Defence. Many of our Senior Leaders started in the program as a stepping stone. The program gives you the best possible insight into where a career in Defence can take you. It allows you to meet people and experience things you have never done before.
After completing the program, I’m now in a permanent role supporting some pretty cool capability. There are so many interesting work areas where I can see myself going next. The program is a challenge. There will be some stress involved, but the Grad team is really helpful and supportive. The people you meet and the experiences you get are amazing.
I would encourage future graduates to never be afraid to ask for help. You learn so much more if you step forward and it lets people know you’re interested.