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 5 candidate will:

• have the ability to interpret, draft, and contribute to policy
• provide technical expertise that contributes to business unit outcomes
• provide professional and policy advice within an area of specialisation
• be accountable for tasks and decisions. Support less experienced employees to achieve goals by providing guidance and quality assurance
• develop objectives for short-term tasks and participate in strategic planning for longer-term initiatives
• apply initiatives and contribute to change and to the improvement in quality and efficiency of services
• assist with maintaining risk management programs
• be required to undertake work that is moderately complex to complex in nature
• maintain a well-developed understanding of relevant legislation and policy frameworks
• works under limited direction and makes independent decisions relating to an area of responsibility
• make decisions within defined parameters and sets new precedents based on sound subject matter knowledge and professional judgement
• perform objective and systematic research and analysis to obtain accurate conclusions based on evidence
• develop and maintain internal and external relationships. Liaise with stakeholders on policy, project or operational issues responding to stakeholder needs and expectations

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.

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.

Reasonable adjustments

Please let us know if you require adjustments to ensure you can fully participate in this recruitment process by emailing the Recruitment Section listed above. All requests for reasonable adjustments will be considered and managed in consultation with you.

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.

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.