AEC Graduate Program

Small agency, big impact

We are at the heart of Australian democracy, and it is with us that you will be involved in meaningful and rewarding work of national significance. You can play a crucial role in running a federal election, which is the nation’s largest peacetime logistical event.

At the AEC we are proud of the part we play in democracy, so come join us and help shape your country’s future.

To be eligible to apply for the AEC Graduate Program, applicants must, at the time of commencement:

  • have obtained a bachelor’s degree (or higher) with a minimum credit average
  • be able to obtain and maintain a baseline security clearance
  • be able to satisfy a police records and character check
  • be an Australian citizen or provide evidence to verify impending citizenship.

Additionally to work at the AEC:

  • Any person who is, and seen to be active in political affairs, and intends to publicly carry on this activity, may compromise the strict neutrality of the AEC and cannot be considered.

The Program

Our AEC Graduate Program runs annually, generally between February to January, and includes two six month rotations in different business areas. You will gain valuable skills and experience whilst being exposed to the broader agency to learn what we do.

Recruitment and selection processes usually commence in March with offers made from October. All graduate positions are located in the AEC’s national office in Canberra, ACT.

If you are interested in working in a dynamic, innovative and collaborative environment, where diversity of thought is valued and your individuality is embraced, then the AEC is the place for you.

What we offer you

Your degree does not define your career pathway. At the AEC, we believe your degree serves to complement your existing skills, passion and goals. During this opportunity as a graduate, you will have access to professional development including on-the-job learning and specific public-sector training, seminars, networking, coaching and mentoring to help you succeed in the APS. You will also be working alongside dedicated and innovative people to design, develop and deliver policies, programs and services that benefit all Australians.

You will join us as an ongoing APS 4 level employee with the opportunity to advance to the APS 5 level upon successful completion of the program. The skills, knowledge and expertise you will develop through the program will help prepare yourself to advance your career.

If you are not located in Canberra, you will need to relocate. The supportive team at the AEC will guide you through this time and answer any questions you might have.

Check out our Enterprise Agreement 2016–19 to explore all the benefits available to our people.

Apply through the Australian Government Graduate Program

The Australian Government Graduate Program offers graduates job opportunities across multiple disciplines. Applying to one of these Streams means you only have to go through the application and selection process once to be considered for a range of Australian Government agencies and departments.

Wherever you start your public service career as a graduate, you’ll do meaningful work from day one, be asked to contribute, be recognised for your perspective and see the impact you can make in the Australian community we serve.

The AEC will be participating in the following streams to recruit 2024 graduates:

  • Generalist Stream
  • Digital Stream
  • Indigenous Graduate Pathway
  • Human Resource Stream
  • Legal Stream
  • Data Stream
  • Accounting and Financial management Stream.

If you wish to be considered for an AEC Graduate role, you will need to apply directly to one of the above streams, noting you may also be considered for a range of other participating Australian Government departments, agencies.

Find out more and apply here!

Hear from our graduates

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Read Adam's story
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Updated: 23 March 2023