AEC Graduate Program - Further information

Updated: 13 March 2013

Eligibility requirements

To be a graduate with the AEC, you must be an Australian citizen or have submitted an application for Australian citizenship.

If successful, you would be required to move to Canberra for the duration of the graduate year. The AEC will provide financial assistance if you need to relocate to Canberra, including flights, and the cost of a removalist for your car and possessions.

The AEC is committed to diversity in the workplace. The advertised vacancy is subject to our guaranteed interview initiative: if you are a person with a disability you may elect to automatically proceed to interview should your skills and experience meet the minimum requirements. Please record your preference in this regard when addressing the selection criteria.

We recognise the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and the unique knowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees bring to our workplace. We actively seek to increase indigenous representation in the Australian Public Service, and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. One position in our Graduate program is reserved for an Indigenous person and is considered a special measure under section 8(1) of the Racial discrimination Act 1975. We welcome and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

As the AEC is responsible for providing the Australian people with an independent electoral service, it is essential that all our employees are – and are seen to be – politically neutral.

Selection process

Applications will be processed as quickly as practicable. If you have any questions about the process, please contact Recruitment on 02 6271 4730 or email recruitment@aec.gov.au.

We aim to notify people who have been successful in gaining an interview by the beginning of June, with interviews and assessment centres conducted in late June. Offers will be made by late July.

Salary and conditions

The AEC has competitive employment conditions and pay.

  • You will begin as an APS 3 and receive a starting salary of $54 964
  • You will be employed within the Graduate Broadband, and will move to either an APS 4 or APS 5 upon successful completion of the graduate year as part of the broadband arrangements
  • Our working week is 37.5 hours
  • When you work longer hours, you receive overtime payments or accrue flex-time and take time off when you need to, in line with operational requirements.
  • You get four weeks recreation leave, personal leave and time off between Christmas and New Year during the office shutdown period.

Cracking the Code

For tips on applying for jobs in the public service, and how to address selection criteria, see How to apply for jobs in the Australian Public Service

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What qualifications is the AEC most interested in?

We welcome applications from people who have studied:
Stream Courses
General Arts, Project Management, Political Science, Communications, Social Science, Economics/Statistics, HR, Commerce or other disciplines
Accounting/Auditing Accounting, Finance, Commerce, Economics
IT Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Management, Business or a related field.

2. Are there positions in state offices?

Our graduate positions are in our National Office in Canberra, but there may be opportunities to have a placement in a State Office.

3. Do I have to be an HD-average student?

No. While academic ability is important, selection is based on a range of factors throughout the whole recruitment process (application, responses to selection criteria, and interview). At a minimum, you must have completed or be due to complete your undergraduate qualification by the end of the 2013 academic year.

4. What behavioural indicators is the AEC looking for?

We want graduates who possess strong oral and written communication skills, are flexible, have leadership potential and who show confidence and initiative. Strong analytical and research skills are also desirable.

5. Is there an age limit for people to apply?

No. All AEC staff are selected on their capabilities as demonstrated against the selection criteria. Graduates are no exception. We select candidates based on merit.

6. How many positions are available?

As we are a relatively small agency, we are aiming to recruit eight graduates for 2014.

7. Will I receive financial assistance if I live interstate and I have to move?

Yes. Depending on individual circumstances, assistance may include, but is not limited to:

  • Payment or reimbursement of transport and removal costs
  • Payment or reimbursement of temporary accommodation at the new location for a short period
  • Reimbursement of the cost of moving pets to the new location

You will have an opportunity to discuss arrangements prior to your move to Canberra.

8. I studied Law – should I apply?

We welcome any applicants who studied law and don't necessarily want to be a practicing lawyer. We have a small legal team, however opportunities to work within that section are limited. There are many other sections of our agency that would benefit from the skills and knowledge you gained during your studies.

Selection Criteria

The key to addressing the Selection Criteria is to demonstrate your capability by using specific examples drawn from your experience. You need to demonstrate to the selection team that you have the ability or potential to do the job.

Applicants are asked to frame their statement of claims around the selection criteria headings – it is not necessary to address each individual dot point. If you require assistance with your application, please do not hesitate to contact AEC Recruitment Services on 02 6271 4730.

Please ensure that you write no more than one page per criteria.

Essential

1. Identify which stream you wish to apply for (General, Accounting/Auditing, or IT) and why you have chosen to apply for the AEC's graduate program. If you have selected the Accounting/Auditing, or IT stream, please tell us about your experience in that area.

2. Achieves results

Proven ability to monitor own progress and make effective use of personal capabilities

This can include the ability to:

  • adapt, remain flexible and respond positively to change,
  • research and analyse information and suggest improvements, and
  • take responsibility for managing workloads

3. Supports productive working relationships

Capacity to build and maintain positive relationships with team members and clients

This can include the ability to:

  • actively listen to others and communicate with influence, both orally and in writing,
  • understand and value diversity in the workplace, and
  • display leadership potential.

4. Displays personal drive and integrity

Proven commitment to ensuring organisational and personal goals are met

This can include the ability to:

  • acknowledge mistakes and seek guidance and feedback as required,
  • commit to ensure organisational and personal goals are met, and
  • work as directed to achieve objectives.

Requirement

Applicants must have successfully completed their studies within the last three years prior to the commencement of the Graduate Program e.g. no earlier than 2010.