Marian, 26
Budget Group - Defence Capability Assessment Brach
Bachelor of Business Administration with a Bachelor of Economics (Honours - First Class), Macquarie University 2006
How did you get into the graduate program?
I was looking to work in economic policy after my degree, and applied for a Cadetship Program to secure a job as well as financial support during my Honours year. During the two day assessment process I was very impressed by Finance's attitudes and work ethic, and so I did not hesitate in accepting the Cadetship offer when it was made to me.
What attracted you to the public service rather than private enterprise?
The public service offers excellent opportunities to be involved in public and economic policy. The professional development attained in the public service also provides an excellent springboard to work in other Government and private sector agencies.
What does being a graduate involve?
Being a graduate in Finance involves travelling a steep learning curve but for very enriching and rewarding results. A graduate's professional development begins from
‘day one' and very soon they are able to make significant contributions to Government decisions and policy.
What would you do on an average day?
Daily work as a Finance graduate is always varied and interesting. One day I may be researching and providing policy briefs to senior managers and ministers, or liaising with Australian Government central agencies, or working closely with other Government agencies to develop and improve Government projects and processes.
What is your working environment like? How many people do you work with?
I would not enjoy my work at Finance half as much if it wasn't for the strong relationships and amazing people I work with. The people I work with are both amiable and professional, and create a positive and rewarding work environment. I work with a tight knit team of three within a larger Branch of eleven.
What is it like living in Canberra?
Canberra has surprised me by how much I like living here. It is a quieter city, but there never seems to be a lack of things to do or places of interest to visit. I have been here a year and have yet to visit even half the places, restaurants, festivals and outdoor events that I thought I would.
How do you compare what you learnt at university to what you learn on the job?
The knowledge and development I gained from my time at Macquarie University was extraordinary, but my work at Finance has greatly accelerated and enhanced my professional skills and capacity. Finance provides unique opportunities to interact with numerous senior Government officials and Departments and gain invaluable on-the-job experience in a highly reputable Department.
What is an interesting project that you have been involved in?
My work in Finance's Defence Capability Assessment Branch involves daily examination and analysis of multi-million dollar major Defence projects. It is fascinating to contribute to the development and improvement of major national security projects which often attract significant public interest. Knowing that I have played a role in delivering capabilities that are actively used to protect Australia's interests is particularly rewarding.
What career opportunities does the Department offer you?
The Department offers varied professional development opportunities, from learning
on-the-job and through formal training programs to building networks with various levels of public servants across the major Government agencies. The Department is a great springboard into working for other Government and private sector agencies as well.
Why would you recommend the Finance graduate program?
I recommend being a graduate in Finance because of the intense and rich experiences Finance has to offer. Professional development opportunities are exceptional and the access and input to significant Government decisions is a rare and valuable feature of working for Finance.
Contact for information on this page: Recruitment and Retention Team