“I’ll be graduating next year and I’m starting to think about my career options. I have never thought about working for the Australian government or being a public servant, but I’ve talked to a few recent graduates who have started graduate programs in intelligence. It sounds intriguing and I’d like to find out more.”
Graduating can be exciting but can also be a bit daunting. You’re ready to take the next step and enter the workforce but it can be hard to work out where to start.
There are many roles in the NIC for graduates.
Nearly all NIC agencies have entry level programs and these provide an opportunity to rotate through different areas of an agency, as well as undertake further specialised training.
Entry level programs can be a great way to get to know an agency, as well as the NIC, as some agencies also offer cross-agency experiences. They are also a great way to start out in an agency and learn how what you have learnt at university or TAFE can be translated into a work environment.
Applications for entry level programs usually open in February and it takes around 6 months to receive an offer if you are successful. There are often a number of steps to go through including assessment centres and interviews. Because of the sensitive nature of the work that we do, you will also likely need to undertake a security clearance process (see Resources for more information) and that can also take time.
Be patient – the wait will be worth it!