Are you, or do you know, a recent or upcoming Year 12 Graduate? If so, a career with the Department of Finance awaits.
Apply now to join our team as a school leaver through the 2026 Australian Government Career Starter Program.
What is the Career Starter Program?
The Australian Government Career Starter Program is a 12‑month career development program, with successful applicants gaining a full‑time, permanent job in the Australian Public Service (APS).
The program combines a nationally‑recognised qualification – a Certificate IV in Government or a Certificate IV in Human Resource Management – with on‑the‑job training in the APS.
When applying, you can express a preference for a role in one of the two streams - Government (generalist) or Human Resources. Your preference will help match you to a role that suits you.
The APS provides competitive salaries, generous superannuation and a range of other benefits.
A career at Finance
Finance is one of 13 agencies participating in the 2026 Australian Government Career Starter Program.
It is a unique opportunity for school leavers to kickstart their careers in a central government agency and gain real-world experience, develop skills and contribute to meaningful work.
Career starters will work and learn within a supportive and professional environment that encourages growth and development.
Areas of opportunity
On offer is a variety of work types, allowing you to explore areas that suit your interests and strengths.
Successful applicants will work in areas such as:
- Human resources
- Customer service
- Projects and policy
- Technical roles.
Applications close 31 August 2025.
For more information
- Visit the Career Starters Program page on our website.
- Attend one of our online information sessions held via Microsoft Teams
