FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I take holidays/leave in my first year?
Graduates are able to take leave during the graduate year, this must be negotiated with your direct supervisor during each placement. However, it is advised that graduates do not take longer periods of leave due to their busy workload and short work rotations.
Will I get financial assistance to relocate to Canberra?
Yes, DVA will provide reasonable financial assistance for your relocation to Canberra. This may include; travel for you and your dependants, temporary accommodation, removal of your belongings, bond assistance, and transport of your vehicle. Arrangements will be made on an individual basis.
Will I be working in Canberra?
Graduate positions are located in Canberra due to the training requirements of the diploma of government. However, depending on business needs there may be some positions available in other capital city locations, after the graduate year is complete.
How much will I get paid?
Your starting salary is $56,059 with 15.4% super, and great working conditions
What type of work will I be doing?
During the first year, graduates undertake three work placements across different areas of business within the Department. This will help graduates gain a broad understanding of DVA’s role and give them the opportunity to start building networks.
The program focuses on developing the skills that DVA values. These include policy, client service, people and work organisation and office skills. You'll be working on real projects as you learn about DVA, its clients and partners. The work placements are varied and through them you will gain an appreciation of the responsibilities of different areas within the Department.
I applied for last year's intake but was not successful, can I reapply?
DVA encourages candidates to reapply, even if they have been unsuccessful in the past.
What do I wear to the interview? What do I wear to my first day of work?
It is expected that graduates wear corporate attire both to the interview and to their first day at work.
Do I get feedback from the recruitment process?
You are welcome to contact DVA for feedback on your application or outcomes from the assessment centre.
Are there any age restrictions?
There are no age restrictions, DVA encourages graduates of all ages to apply as long as they satisfy the eligibility criteria.
How many graduates positions will be offered by DVA this year?
DVA usually takes 10-15 graduates each year. This may seem a small number, however this is purposeful to retaining the tailored nature of DVA’s graduate program. Recruiting a small group of graduates also allows graduates to be well-regarded and remembered by senior executive officers and not lost in a crowd of other graduates.