Department of Training and Workforce Development Graduate Program

Combining formal public sector learning and development with practical experience working on real world projects

Who we are

The Department of Training and Workforce Development aims to transform lives and communities by helping Western Australians to develop the skills and capabilities to overcome barriers to training and employment.

We work with TAFE colleges, private training organisations and other service providers to develop innovative job and training programs to ensure Western Australians have the right skills to work in emerging and priority industries.

As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage people from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences to join us including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse people, people with disability, youth, women and people of diverse sexualities and genders.

Find out more about working with us by visiting our website.

About the program

We are looking for the future leaders of the WA public sector.

Our 12 month graduate program offers the opportunity to contribute to purposeful projects across the Department, where fresh thinking and digital skills are highly valued.

You will work on two projects spending 6 months with different teams who will share their deep knowledge, experience, and commitment to your growth and development.

New Aboriginal Graduate Project Officer position!

The introduction of the Aboriginal Graduate Project Officer position in the Department’s Graduate Program reflects our commitment to the employment and retention of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This initiative also supports our goal of building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

As an Aboriginal Graduate Project Officer, your first 6 month rotation will be with the Aboriginal Policy Planning and Reconciliation team. This team works to elevate the voices and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, ensuring that policy development and service delivery creates meaningful pathways for vocational training, employment and economic development.

You’ll be joining a culturally safe and supportive workplace, where your growth and wellbeing matter. You’ll have access to mentoring and guidance from a senior Aboriginal colleague, opportunities to connect with our Aboriginal Employee Yarning Circle Network, and flexible working arrangements and leave entitlements that support family and cultural responsibilities.

We’re committed to supporting our graduates, providing you with the tools, coaching, and experiences to strengthen your competitiveness for future roles, both within the Department and across other public sector agencies.

Program highlights

Throughout the program you have access to:

  • A comprehensive professional development program focused on building key capabilities for a successful career in the WA public sector
  • Career development workshops providing practical tips, guidance and support when thinking about the next step in your career
  • Thrive at DTWD, our comprehensive health and wellbeing program which includes mental health training and support, and several health benefits including corporate discounts and subsidies
  • The Young Professionals Program which provides exciting networking events and professional/career development initiatives including the chance to hear from our senior leaders and to participate in the Director General for a Day Program
  • The opportunity to connect with and be supported by the Department’s employee networks, including the Young Professionals Program, Disability Inclusion Network, Aboriginal Employee Yarning Circle and People of Diverse Sexualities and Genders Network
  • Launch, a 10 month development program for university qualified staff new to the sector
  • Informal mentoring from a previous graduate, offering career guidance and workplace support
  • An opportunity to attend the annual IPAA Young Professionals Conference

What we’re looking for in candidates

Our ability to deliver value for the future of Western Australians relies on the leadership capability of our people. We’re seeking graduates who demonstrate the mindsets and behaviours of Personal Leadership, including those who:

  • show empathy, compassion, integrity and humility
  • deliver results and contribute to team success
  • think critically and strategically to identify and solve problems
  • embrace team diversity and foster inclusion
  • learn from others and take responsibility for their personal growth.

We welcome graduates from all disciplines to apply for the 2026 Graduate Program. You’ll be matched to business area rotations based on your qualifications, skills, strengths and career interests.

Graduates with a tertiary degree or higher in Communications, Marketing, Digital and Social Media, Project Management, Economics, Work Health and Safety, Human Resources, Business and/or Commerce, Management, Sustainable Energy or Data Science are highly desirable and are encouraged to apply. 

Application information

  • Applications are open to those that have graduated with a tertiary qualification in 2024 or will complete their qualification by the end of 2025.
  • International students are encouraged to apply if they have the appropriate visa requirements for the duration of the program (12 months).
  • The Aboriginal Graduate Project Officer position is offered in accordance with Section 51 of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984. As such, only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who meet the requirements of the role will be considered for this position.

Applications are now closed.

To receive updates about our graduate program and application timelines, add your details to our graduate opportunities register.

Contact us

Please contact the below for any queries in relation to the Department of Training and Workforce Development’s rotational graduate program.

T: (08) 6551 5065
E: DTWDGraduateProgram@dtwd.wa.gov.au

Luke - Department of Training and Workforce Development

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