The opportunities

DFAT is seeking talented and driven people to contribute to the development and implementation of international policy and programs for the Australian Government.

Multiple roles are available across the department’s seven strategic groups with a range of focus areas including:

• development, humanitarian, and aid programs

• economic and investment policy & analysis

• fraud, corruption and enterprise integrity

• intelligence policy & analysis

• international trade negotiations

• international security

• legal advice & analysis

• media and strategic communications

• multilateral and global issues engagement

• policy development and implementation

• strategic planning

• trade and investment policy & analysis

As there are a range of vacancies across the department, your application should highlight your specific capability and experience in one or more of the above areas.

The initial vacancies to be filled from this process are based in Canberra. This process may be used to fill roles in other locations in Australia and overseas.

Our ideal candidates

We’re looking for high-performing people with skills and experience in the above areas of policy and program management relevant to the department’s operations. You will be highly organised and able to work with broad direction.

Our ideal APS 6 candidates will:

• be capable of demonstrating expertise and technical knowledge in an area of focus relevant to the department as outlined under ‘The Opportunities’ above and have a thorough understanding of global affairs

• feel confident making decisions using good judgement and expertise, governed by the application of policies and best-practice principles

• be capable of developing and managing complex relationships with stakeholders to achieve work area goals

• be a confident communicator with strong written and verbal communication skills.

• demonstrate a sound ability to research, interpret and draft documents and provide advice and briefings that cover complex subject matter

• be comfortable contributing to business improvement strategies and change in the workplace, and in proposing new ideas and initiatives

• be capable of prioritising and managing tasks, working autonomously, and escalating issues that may have an impact on the work area

• demonstrate the ability to contribute positively to a workplace culture that values diversity and inclusivity

• have a strong understanding of the role and responsibilities of the department and global affairs, help to influence and develop strategy, policies, priorities and operational practices in areas outlined under ‘The Opportunities’ above to support the department’s objectives.

For more information about this role, including the type of person we are looking for, please refer to the Candidate Pack available by clicking the 'Apply Now' button.

Diversity at DFAT

The department values diversity and is committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible workplace. As a department that represents Australia to the world, we want to ensure that we fully reflect Australia’s rich diversity across all areas of our workforce.

The department’s approach to disability inclusion respects, supports and celebrates diversity by promoting the conditions that allow meaningful participation by a wide range of people, including people with disabilities.

We value the talents, skills and perspectives that people with disabilities bring to our organisation and are committed to removing barriers to employment. We encourage people with disability to apply for vacancies within the department.

For more information on the department’s diversity and inclusion program, strategies and plans, our Diversity Network and Inclusion Champions, please visit the DFAT Careers page.

Confirmation of disability

In applying under this affirmative measure, you will be required to provide evidence to confirm you live with a disability. This evidence will be requested by DFAT’s external recruitment provider if you progress to the interview stage of this recruitment process. Acceptable evidence includes:

• certificate or letter signed and executed by a registered medical practitioner

• letter from a Disability Employment Service

• a statutory declaration confirming you live with a disability.

Applications close at 11:30pm AEST Sunday 15 June 2025 .