Are you ready to kickstart your career in an agency where you can make a real difference and use your skills to protect and shape the future of Australia?

The AFP First Nations Pathway Program (previously known as Directions Program) is a structured 12-month initiative designed to provide First Nations people with meaningful career pathways across a range of specialist and support roles. Based in Canberra and commencing each February, the program combines tailored learning with practical experience, empowering participants to contribute to national and international operations.

Through a blend of face-to-face and virtual training, the program supports your professional development and prepares you for a rewarding career in the area that recruited you. Upon completion, you'll transition into a permanent position aligned with your strengths and interests.

Your work will contribute to, and influence, programs and policies impacting on all Australians, including First Nations families and communities. It also helps ensure the AFP's workforce is representative of the communities we serve.

Role Description and Responsibilities

AFP First Nations Pathway provides employment pathways in a variety of roles such as intelligence, forensics, ICT, intelligence, corporate support, protection, finance, canines, media and communications, and health and wellbeing.

Whilst on the program, you will:

gain a nationally recognised Certificate IV in Government Investigations. Successful completion of this qualification is an important requirement of the program, and you will br provided with generous study time to support you.

undertake targeted professional development opportunities that provide you with the knowledge and skills to set up your career.

complete a number of work area rotations, exposing you to different areas of the AFP.

access First Nations Pathway Program specific support, including buddies and other organisational networks.

Please note: While the First Nations Pathway Program provides an introduction to the various roles available at the AFP, this is not a direct gateway to becoming a sworn member. If you are interested in sworn policing in the future, the First Nations Pathway Program is a great starting point to prepare you for this career path, however you will still be required to pass through the relevant processes applicable for sworn roles.

We're a diverse and dynamic agency, seeking a range of people to help us stay ahead of crime. Our program seeks out First Nations candidates who are:

great at communication

good problem solvers

out-of-the-box thinkers

able to work well in a team

ready to learn new skills.

No formal qualifications are required.

Positions for this role will be located in Canberra. Relocation assistance will be provided if you are moving interstate. This is on a case-by-case basis.

Eligibility

You can apply for our First Nations Pathway Program, if you're:

18 years of age or older

an Australian citizen

able to provide confirmation of your First Nations heritage

able to obtain a Negative Vetting 1 Security Clearance

able to meet our character standards

willing to undergo any police, character, health or other checks required

willing to move to Canberra.

No formal qualifications are required.

Benefits

The AFP First Nations Pathway Program provides a number of benefits, including:

Annual starting salary of $64,754 + 15.4% superannuation

Six weeks of paid annual leave per year + additional paid Christmas stand down

Cultural, Ceremonial, and NAIDOC leave

18 days of paid personal leave, and 4 extra mandatory rest days per year

Culturally safe recruitment and training process

Flexible and hybrid working arrangements that provides work/ life balance

Health & wellbeing services

Access to AFP Tertiary Study Assistance Scheme (ATSAS)

A supportive culture and forward-thinking workplace

Ongoing support from the Emerging Talent Team, First Nations Unit, First Nations Pathway Buddies, and the Mulunggang Indigenous Officer Network

A variety of work and developmental experiences

Further details and other generous employment conditions can be found in the AFP Enterprise Agreement - https://www.afp.gov.au/jobs/benefits-conditions/enterprise-agreements

Why join us?

At the AFP, we value the unique perspectives and lived experiences of First Nations people. You will embark on a professional journey where every day brings a new challenge, opportunities to grow, and a chance to create a safer Australia.We are committed to serving our community with integrity, courage, and professionalism. A career with the AFP can take you around Australia and the world, doing work that's critical to keep all Australians safe.