Policy and Program Stream Graduate Program (Feb 2026)

Have you recently graduated from university, looking for an inclusive and diverse work environment, want to make a real difference, be valued, take on endless opportunities for growth whilst being your authentic self?

If you answered yes to any of the above, the NIAA Graduate Program wants you to apply! 

Our Policy and Program Stream is for graduates who are inquisitive, flexible and keen to contribute and learn about policy and program design, development, implementation and evaluation.

Our Agency is unique: we are about people, purpose and partnerships. We are committed to a common goal, we care about each other and our stakeholders, and we work with in partnerships to support the self-determination and aspirations of First Nations peoples. 

What NIAA provides

• 12-month program consisting of three rotations through various work areas with a potential rotation in one of our metropolitan, regional or remote locations.
• Commencing as an APS4, salary of $77,558 p.a. + superannuation with eligible advancement to the APS 5 level and have the opportunity to be assessed to advance to the APS 6 level.
• Various locations on offer Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin and Perth
• Choose from one of our tailored streams Policy and Program, Corporate and Enabling and Operations and Delivery
• Extensive professional learning and development opportunities to support your career progression and possible future promotions.
• Experience our award-winning cross-cultural learning ‘Footprints Program’.
• An inclusive and diverse workplace including of our 6 diversity networks:
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network
  • Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Network
  • Disability Network
  • Pride Network
  • Wellbeing Network
  • Women’s Network
• People are the heart of the NIAA, Graduates are no different we provide tailored dedicated support through, buddies, mentors, pastoral care as well as networking opportunities.

The work you will do

As a NIAA graduate, you will develop the skills, capabilities and networks to progress in their APS careers while contributing to implementing the Government’s priorities to provide the greatest benefit to all First Nations people. 

It’s an incredibly exciting time to be joining the NIAA as we work in partnership to enable the self- determination and aspirations of First Nations people and communities. The Agency is unique, providing endless opportunities and great diversity in our roles, from policy, programs, engagement, grants administration and corporate, and much more. 

In the Policy and Program stream you will work with First Nation’s communities and across the public service to implement policies and programs on the ground. The Policy and Program stream will allow you to work in various strategic, social and economic policy and program areas of the Agency.

Rotation opportunities in:

Closing the gap, culture and heritage, early years and education, families and safety, health and wellbeing, housing and infrastructure, employment, land and environment, business and economics, constitutional recognition & truth telling and much more.

You could be assisting with the following key pieces of work:

• Providing advice to the Minister and Assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians, as well as the Special Envoy for Reconciliation and the Implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart
• Implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart – Voice, Treaty and Truth.
• working closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, state and territory governments and Indigenous organisations
• Implementation of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap
• Developing policies and delivering programs with and for First Nations Peoples
• Working with and advising other government agencies on Indigenous affairs matters
• Championing reconciliation throughout Australia.
• Working closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, state and territory governments and Indigenous organisations

Who we’re looking for? 

The NIAA has an ambitious reform agenda ahead of us, we are seeking candidates that want to work at the NIAA because they are passionate and want to make a real difference by contributing to work that ensures Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are heard, recognised and empowered.

We are looking for a variety of academic disciplines with diverse experiences and backgrounds.  Our graduate roles are fast-paced, dynamic and present an exciting opportunity for someone with curiosity and a willingness to learn. 

So, if you are someone that wants to leave your mark on the public service and be able to point to an accomplishment that has lasting impacts for the Australian people, NIAA is the place for you.

Did you know?

The 2026 NIAA Graduate program has both an affirmative measures disability and affirmative measures Indigenous recruitment process. What does this mean? Affirmative measures are vacancies designed to address the under-representation of people who identify as having disability or as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander in the Australian Public Service (APS).

Who can apply

To be eligible to apply, you must have completed your university degree within the last eight years or be in your final year of study with at least a credit average.

You also must be an Australian citizen and willing to undergo police pre-screening checks as required. Be able to obtain and maintain an Australian Government security clearance to a minimum of Baseline level.

Timeline

• 4 March–22 April: Submission of a simple online application, including a 300-word pitch, resume with referees and academic transcript.
• May: Online video interview
• July: Virtual Assessment Centre including a speed interview, written activity and group activity and Referee checks.
• September: Offers
• February 2026: Successful candidates commence the program.

Please note you may receive an ongoing or non-ongoing offer separate from the Graduate Program

How to apply

We have a real purpose with endless opportunities. 

Leave your mark on the public service apply today for the NIAA Graduate Program, applications close 22nd April 2025.

To find out more please visit our website.