Applications now open for APS Indigenous Pathways

Are you currently studying at university? Have you completed your degree or are looking for a career change?

The Australian Public Service Commission is calling for applications for the 2014 Australian Public Service (APS) Indigenous Pathways Programs for Indigenous Graduates, Cadets and Trainees.

An initiative of the APS Indigenous Employment Strategy, the Australian Public Service Commission works in partnership with APS agencies to provide employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The aim of the program is to provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with the right skills and knowledge to commence a career in Government, whether you are looking to transition your studies into a career, looking for support during your tertiary studies or looking to combine paid work with a structured training and development program.

Working for the Australian Government is proving to be the right career choice for former graduate program participant, Wongaibon woman Sarah Richards, and former trainee program participant, Tjapukai man Tegan Curtis.

Sarah, a former Pathways graduate with the Department of Finance and Deregulation, believes the APS not only offers employee support but opportunities to develop the skills she obtained through her studies.

“Some of the positive aspects or benefits of working in the APS are the strong support networks and flexibility to help manage your work-life balance,” Sarah said.

“I studied a Bachelor of Commerce at university with a major in Accounting and Economics and now I am working at the Department of Finance and Deregulation utilising and applying that knowledge obtained during my degree.”

Tegan, a former Pathways trainee at the Australian Public Service Commission, said his traineeship has helped him build the foundations for a solid career path.

“While working in the Australian Public Service, I’ve gained a lot of knowledge and understanding of the skills and attributes that I’ll need to create a career path for myself,” Tegan said.

“I feel that from what I’ve experienced in my role I’ve gained enough confidence to build on my future ambitions.”

Applications for the 2014 intake of the APS Indigenous Pathways Programs for Indigenous Graduates, Cadets and Trainees are now open. By lodging a single application Indigenous applicants have the opportunity to be considered for employment in a number of Australian Government agencies.