Welcome to the WA public sector – we are different to what you might think.
Our range of university graduate and cadetship programs provide the foundational skills needed for successful and rewarding careers, while you work on important programs that support the Western Australia community.
Use this page to find the graduate programs best suited to you, and subscribe to hear more about our job opportunities.
A full transcript of this animated video is available.
Graduate program quick facts
Show moreWhat salary will I earn?
Most WA public sector graduate programs start on a Level 3 salary of $76,026 year. There is a 3% public sector salary increase in June 2023 which is exciting news for new grads coming onboard.
How are graduate programs structured?
Programs range from 12 months to 3 years with most including rotations across different divisions, and some across different agencies!
This provides plenty of variety and learning opportunities no matter what program you choose.
Will I be employed when I finish the graduate program?
Many graduate programs offer the opportunity of for permanent employment at the end. Where this is not possible, your agency will help you find your next opportunity.
There are more than 166,000 people employed across the WA public sector. With the experience you have gained, you’ll be hot property!
What training do I receive?
All programs provide comprehensive support and training that often includes guidance from an experienced mentor, networking opportunities, agency induction and role specific training.
Many agencies also enrol their graduate staff in the Public Sector Commission’s Launch program. This innovative 10 month development program includes practical skills plus experiences to help you develop a growth mindset, an essential element for a successful career.
Can international students apply for graduate programs?
The graduate programs offered by the Public Sector Commission and Office of the Auditor General accept applications from international students who have valid working visas.
Most other programs require applicants to be Australian citizens or permanent residents. However, if you are an international student and interested in a program please contact the agency and talk about their program and other employment opportunities they may have.
If you can’t seem to find the information you are looking for, email us at opportunity@psc.wa.gov.au
Where is my qualification needed?
Show moreMost agencies are interested in graduates with a wide range of qualifications, skills and experience, but here you can discover where your qualification may be a high priority for an agency, or closely aligned with their functions.
These agencies may be a good place to start as you look at the graduate and cadetship programs on offer.
Remember though – public sector agencies are interested in much more about you than just your qualification, so do not ‘cross off’ an agency if their name is not listed next to your qualification.
Hear from our graduates
Show moreBlake - Department of the Premier and Cabinet
Chelsea - Department of Water and Environmental Regulation
Courtney - Department of Finance
Lee - Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage
Luke - Department of Training and Workforce Development
Nicola - Department of Justice
Reagan – Landgate
Samantha - Government Sector Labour Relations
Shimona - Mental Health Commission
Tahlia - Department of Treasury Aboriginal Graduate Program
Tamsin - Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation
Penny - Public Sector Commission
Thomas - Department of Treasury
Come and say hi! - Our 2023 events
Show moreUpcoming events
Event | Date | Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Murdoch Careers Fair | Thursday 23 March | 11.00 am - 1.30 pm | Murdoch campus |
The Big Meet | Wednesday 29 March | 11.00 am - 2.00 pm | Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre |
Careers Expo | Thursday 18 May | 09.00 am - 3.00 pm | Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre |
Friday 19 May | 09.00 am - 3.00 pm | Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre | |
Saturday 20 May | 10.00 am - 4.00 pm | Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre | |
Sunday 21 May | 10.00 am - 4.00 pm | Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre | |
SkillsWest Expo | Thursday 27 July | 9.00 am - 3.00 pm | Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre |
Friday 28 July | 9.00 am - 3.00 pm | Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre | |
Saturday 29 July | 9.00 am - 4.00 pm | Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre |
Past events
Event | Date | Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Curtin O-day | Wednesday 22 February | 11 am to 2:30 pm | Curtin Bentley |
UWA O-day | Friday 24 February | 11.00 am - 3.00 pm | UWA Nedlands |
ECU Business/Law Fair | Wednesday 8 March | 11.00 am - 1.00 pm | ECU Joondalup |
Curtin Careers Fair | Friday 17 March | 11.00 am - 2.00 pm | Curtin Bentley |
ECU Science Fair | Monday 20 March | 10.00 am - 1.30 pm | ECU Joondalup |