FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1. Where are the positions located?

The majority of positions are located at Central Office at Woden (Phillip), Canberra—Australia's capital and the centre of Australian Government activities. Limited positions are available for Health Science stream graduates, to rotate at TGA's office in Symonston, Canberra.

If you are considering coming to Canberra and then returning to your home state at the end of the GDP, you should bear in mind that opportunities arising in our State/ Territory Offices will be limited. Upon successful completion of the GDP you are eligible to compete, on merit, for any advertised position.

Question 2. When would I start?

The GDP commences in late January each year.

Question 3. What are the benefits of completing a 'development' program?

Our GDP is a great way to begin your career. It provides good skills and knowledge to help you make the most of your career, following completion of the GDP. It also guarantees you a permanent position in the department, upon successful completion. Through your rotations, you will be exposed to a wide range of work activities and the health issues being targeted by the Australian Government.

On a more social level, you will have access to the Canberra Social Network of Graduates (SnoG). You will be 'in good company'—more than 800 graduates commence work with various government departments in Canberra each year. This network is a useful source of both work and social contacts.

Question 4. Where do I get my permanency granted at the end of the GDP?

You will undertake three workplace rotations, of four-months duration each, with the first commencing in your home division. This is the division that has undertaken to employ you at the successful completion of the GDP. In your second and third rotations you will experience a variety of work in different areas of the department. At the end of the GDP you will return to your home division, unless you are offered a job elsewhere, or did not successfully complete the GPD.

Question 5. Why this department?

One of the best reasons to work for the department is that our programs have a direct everyday impact on the community. We drive policy and program issues in areas as diverse as Medicare, mental health awareness, HIV/AIDS, cancer screening, immunisation and aged care, as well as our research and monitoring role in relation to medicines, complementary medicines and pharmaceuticals.

Our graduates have the opportunity to participate in a diverse and challenging range of activities ranging from policy development, State/Commonwealth/industry negotiations and program administration, through research and report writing. Initially, your role will involve learning and assisting, and your responsibilities will increase as your skills and knowledge grow. Work is normally undertaken in a team environment allowing for the development of administrative, interpersonal and personal project management skills.

The department offers generous conditions of employment which are detailed in our current Enterprise Agreement 2011–14.

Question 6. Would I get help with my costs relocating to Canberra?

We will provide some assistance with fares and removal expenses associated with your relocation. We will arrange for the removal and storage of furniture and personal effects. Further details will be provided about this when the selections have been finalised.

We will also assist with some short-term accommodation expenses, upon your arrival, to allow you time to find somewhere suitable to live. If your family is moving to Canberra with you, the department will provide some assistance in their relocation as well.