Indigenous Apprenticeships Program - IAP

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The Indigenous Apprenticeships Program (IAP) is a pathway for First Nations people to start their career in the Australian Public Service (APS). The program provides an opportunity to undertake a formal qualification of Certificate IV or a Diploma upon successful completion of the program, equipping you with the skills to build your career.

Since its first year, the IAP has won multiple awards for its commitment to the employment and development opportunities of its participants’.

Since 2015, the IAP has given over 1,800 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people opportunities to join the APS. These are people with diverse backgrounds, including people leaving school, finishing study or looking for a new career.

About the program

  • On-the-job training is provided for the 12-month program.
  • A permanent, full-time, entry-level position in government at either the APS level 2 or 3 and an advancement opportunity to the next level post-program.
  • Competitive salary, superannuation and employment conditions.
  • Peer support, access to the First Nations Network (FNN), a dedicated buddy and First Nations mentor.
  • Opportunity to complete a Diploma qualification.
  • Paid First Nations Ceremonial Leave.

Benefits

Participants are recruited at the APS2 and APS3 levels. In addition to the on-the-job training provided by the business area, APS2 apprentices complete a Certificate IV in Government, and APS3 apprentices complete a Diploma in Government.

Relocation assistance 

All positions are located in Canberra. Relocating and starting a new job can be exciting, daunting and challenging. Reasonable relocation assistance will be provided for participants required to move for the position. 

Assistance may include:

  • flights or other transportation costs
  • access to temporary accommodation (time limited)
  • furniture removal and short term storage costs.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Indigenous Apprenticeships Program, you must:

  • be of First Nations heritage and be able to confirm your heritage
  • be an Australian citizen at the time an offer is made
  • be available to commence your position in August 2025
  • be able to obtain and maintain a Baseline security clearance
  • be prepared to study a Diploma-level qualification
  • be prepared to relocate to Canberra/Ngunnawal Country
  • satisfactory health clearance through the completion of an Employment Health Declaration.

How to apply

For more information and how to apply, visit the Australian Government Indigenous Apprenticeships Program on the Services Australia website.

Application close 2 March 2025

Contact us

If you have further questions about the application process or opportunities with the APSC, please contact the APSC People Team.

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