Data Cadet Program (May 2023)

Overview

The Data Cadet Program aims to attract data talent to the public service by supporting their studies and giving them practical skills. As a Data Cadet, you will have the opportunity to source, research and use information and data to solve problems, gain insights and make decisions.

The program is for Australian citizens who are currently studying tertiary subjects related to data science, data analysis or statistics. If you're a student looking to launch your data career in government, this program could be for you. Roles are available across the public service in a variety of participating agencies.

On the job support, career guidance and professional development throughout the program will grow you into a job-ready public servant. You will contribute to the meaningful work of the Australian Government.

Who can apply?

To be eligible to apply for the Data Cadet Program, applicants must be Australian citizens. Applicants must have completed one year or the equivalent of an undergraduate tertiary degree at the commencement of the program. They must also have a minimum of 1 year of study remaining when the program starts.

Applicants are welcome from all undergraduate degree types and disciplines who have an interest in or are taking subjects in:

• Analytics
• Actuarial studies
• Data science or mining
• Computer science
• Engineering
• Physics
• Demography
• Economics
• Econometrics
• Engineering
• Finance
• Mathematics or mathematical modelling
• Machine learning
• Psychology
• Risk and intelligence analysis
• Social sciences or statistics

What is on offer?

The Data Cadet Program offers:

• Industry experience while you finish studying
• Competitive salary for flexible part-time hours around your class timetable
• Reimbursement for your university fees if you pass (up to $800 per subject)
• Potential credit towards your degree
• Guaranteed permanent employment when you finish your degree

What are we looking for from you?

• Commitment to undertaking 2 days equivalent of work per week and actively participating in all aspects of the program
• Curiosity, aptitude and interest in data disciplines and a desire to build on your skills
• An interest in undertaking meaningful work serving the Australian community
• Contribution to a professional, respectful and positive workplace
• Compliance with all public service values including relevant secrecy and privacy laws if applicable
• A commitment to looking after your health and well-being to achieve a healthy work/study/life balance

What locations is the program running in?

Darwin, Newcastle and Townsville. You'll work from an APS Academy Campus at a university in your preferred location.

Please note that applications to work at our Newcastle campus close on February 19. Applications to work at our Darwin or Townsville campuses close on March 19.

Selection process

There are three stages of the selection process.

Step 1: Submit your application at the provided link. You'll be advised whether you have progressed to the next stage.

Step 2: Attend an online interview with the selection panel.

Step 3: At the end of the process, if successful, you'll be placed with an agency based on your skills and experience and their operational needs. If you are not matched with an agency in the first instance, you may be placed in a merit pool that is used to fill vacancies for up to 18 months.

If you're not successful at a particular stage, we'll let you know by email and provide feedback as soon as possible.