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:

• compliance and regulation
• development, humanitarian, and aid programs
• economic and investment policy & analysis
• fraud, corruption and enterprise assurance and 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 and business planning and governance
• 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 level 4 candidate will:

• have functional expertise in a specific area that contributes to team goals
• provide sound advice which influences decisions by others
• complete allocated tasks, monitor workflow and review work of less experienced employees
• participate in strategic planning and decision making within the work area
• contribute new ideas and identify opportunities to improve the efficiency of business processes
• identify and mitigate risks which impact of own and team outcomes
• be required to undertake tasks of moderate complexity
• have a good understanding of relevant legislation and policy framework
• work under general direction. Exercises some discretion with respect to how procedures and guidelines and interpreted and applied
• make decisions within defined parameters relating to the area of responsibility
• build rapport and maintain stakeholder relationships. Liaise with stakeholders and assist to resolve moderately complex issues

Diversity at DFAT

The department recognises the importance of valuing diversity and is committed to improving and sustaining employment outcomes for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples. As a department that represents Australia to the world, we strive to have a workforce reflective of the diversity of the Australian population.

We value the talents and skills of people of diverse cultural backgrounds and support culturally inclusive recruitment practices. We encourage all Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples to apply for vacancies with the department.

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

Confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage

In applying under this affirmative measure, you will be required to provide evidence to confirm you are an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Australian. This evidence may be provided as part of your application or at a later stage of the recruitment process. Acceptable evidence includes:

• a letter signed and executed by the Chairperson of an incorporated Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander organisation confirming you are recognised as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person; or
• a confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent form executed by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander organisation; or
• two statutory declarations confirming you are an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Australian. The first declaration must be completed by you and the second declaration can be completed by an Indigenous Service Provider (e.g. a University Support Unit or an Indigenous Medical Service) or an APS employee, who is also Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

Looking for more information?

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' button.

Applications close 11:30pm ADST Sunday 5 October 2025

Please note, there is no longer a requirement to submit your CV. Work history is now included in the application form.