Careers at DVA – Graduates share their stories
Chris Gill |
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Chris Gill
National Office
2002 Graduate Program
I joined the Department in the 2002 graduate intake after a varied career in my home town of Perth. At various times prior to joining DVA I had been a carer, fitness centre manager, masseur, and training coordinator, and I saw my move to the APS as a career step that would allow me to serve the public interest. I was selected to have the Health Division as my 'home' for the graduate year, and I remained within that Division upon graduating from the program.
My placements over the course of the graduate year were a great opportunity for me to learn about the Department, and to apply some of the technical skills that I brought to the program. I worked in the Health Studies section of the Defence Links Branch for my first placement, doing historical research into British nuclear tests in Australia, and then moved to the Health e-Business Branch to work on e-Health policy. I also had a brief stint at the Ministers' Office, and would recommend that experience to anyone interested in gaining some first-hand experience in the political process.
The Health Division provided a great work environment upon completing the graduate program. I initially worked in the F-111 Deseal/Reseal Health Care Scheme and subsequently managed that Scheme. The Scheme was funded by Defence and administered payment for the treatment and counselling of people affected by the F-111 deseal/reseal programs at RAAF Base Amberley. I was supported in the role with direct supervision from my Branch Head, and also structured training through the 'Leadership Fundamentals' course – each of which has provided great opportunities for learning.
My subsequent roles were in Defence Links Branch (Compensation and Support Division) and the Mental Health Policy Section (Health Division), where I gained experience in the budget process and in establishing new initiatives.
I was very fortunate in 2006 to be offered a role in my home State in the Corporate Division – this has been a great opportunity to learn new aspects of DVA’s business whilst also being reunited with friends and family. My role has recently changed to reflect a full time human resource management focus, and I have had the opportunity to take a lead role in the restructure of People Services Group. DVA continues to give me great opportunities to expand my skills, and to work on projects that interest me. The graduate program has been a great stepping stone into a public sector career.
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