Communications Graduate Program (Feb 2024)

The communications capability at the Department of Health and Aged Care (the Department) is responsible for delivering strategic communications advice and support for the Department’s activities to help keep Australians healthy and safe.

Our communications professionals work in an exciting, dynamic, and interesting environment providing and managing communications services for the Department and portfolio ministers. The communication branches are the first point of contact for departmental and ministerial staff requiring communications advice and assistance.

There are currently three communication branches in the department: Communications and Change Branch, Public Information Branch and Aged Care Communications and Change Branch.

These communication branches are responsible for delivering strategic, audience-focused communications strategies, products and services to raise awareness of health, aged care and sports policies and programs to help ensure better health for all Australians.

At Health, Graduates are empowered to achieve their full potential in the workplace through our ten (10) monthly Graduate Program that provides the:

A comprehensive induction to the Graduate Program and Department of Health

Two (2) diverse placements across the Department.

An inclusive, flexible and healthy workplace with generous leave conditions and a competitive salary.

Starting Salary of $78,954 and advance to an APS4 level of $87,843 after successful completion of the program.

On-the-job work experience and structured learning and development activities to challenge and develop your capability and guide you in becoming a valuable Australian Public Servant.

As a communications stream graduate, you will be part of the 2025 Graduate Program. Over the 10 months, you will have the opportunity to undertake extended rotations across core communication areas to ensure you develop strong foundational skills as a government communicator. You will have access to specialised communication training, on-the-job training, and mentoring from senior communication practitioners.

To be eligible for the communication graduate stream you need to have completed a degree in communications, marketing, public relations, advertising, journalism, business, design, or a similar qualification.