Australian Government School Leaver Program - AGSLP

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About the program

The Australian Government School Leaver Program is a 12-month career development program. It’s a full-time, permanent role with a competitive salary, paid holidays and superannuation.

The program builds on the success of the Department of Finance’s Career Starter Program and the APS HR Profession’s Human Resources (HR) School Leaver Program that you may have heard about in previous years.

We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce and value the unique perspectives that each person brings. We strongly encourage applications from First Nations people and individuals with disability.

For more information or if you require any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to assist.

Benefits

As a participant with the APSC you will be connected to friendly, experience professionals who will support you as you start your career.

Participants complete a structured learning and development program and, depending on your area of interest, you will complete either a Certificate IV in Government or a Certificate IV in Human Resource Management.

Other benefits joining the Commission include:

  • A full time position with a competitive starting salary starting at the APS 1 Level classification.
  • Career progression on successful completion of the program you’ll have the opportunity to advance to the APS2 classification.
  • A supportive, inclusive and flexible working environment.
  • 15.4% superannuation and four weeks paid leave per year.
  • Christmas shutdown.
  • Nationally recognised qualification of a Certificate IV in Government or Human Resource Management.
  • Networking events.
  • A ‘buddy’ from previous programs.
  • An employee assistance program for well-being and career support.

Hear from a previous participant

The School Leaver program was a game-changer for my career. I gained hands-on experience in various roles, a formal qualification in governance, and transferable skills that are highly valued across the APS. A highlight of my experience was contributing to the Spirit of Service exhibition, where I had the privilege of collaborating with talented and creative individuals from diverse backgrounds.

       - Kelsey

Eligibility

To apply for the AGSLP, you must:

  • be an Australian citizen or going to be granted Australian citizenship by November 2025 and be able to provide evidence of this
  • have completed Year 12 Certificate in 2024 or be completing in 2025
  • Be able to obtain and maintain a Baseline security clearance.

How to apply

The APSC wants you! If you are keen to learn, are curious and have a good attitude, we would love you to join us.

Attributes that will benefit you through the recruitment process include:

  • Communicating with influence
  • Achieving results
  • Displaying personal drive and integrity.

Most of all we are interested in positive attitude and behaviours and the learning and experience gained throughout school as well as any extracurricular activities you undertook. Think sports teams, community groups, volunteering and the like.

Application process

Applications for the 2026 Australian Government School Leaver Program open August 2025 .

The application process is a multi-stage assessment process and may include elements such as an online application, skills assessment and a virtual assessment centre, including an interview and group activity.

Contact us

For more information please visit the Australian Government School Leaver Program

Alternatively, you can contact us directly at the Commission: people@apsc.gov.au

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