5. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: cracking the code
Get the facts
Workplace diversity makes a major contribution to the capability of the APS and we are looking for more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to work at all levels.
If you are interested in starting a career in the APS but have limited experience in public administration or related fields, there are a number of employment pathways to help kick-start your career. These include Indigenous entry level jobs, cadetships and graduate positions.
For example, Indigenous cadetships are a great way to complete your degree while gaining professional experience—and you may be eligible for financial assistance.
What are Affirmative measure: Indigenous employment provisions?
Affirmative measure provisions are aimed at improving employment outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. They are permitted by the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 and are used to reserve certain jobs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants. You may hear these jobs referred to as affirmative measure positions, or special measures as they were formerly known.
What are identified positions?
Some agencies advertise identified positions. These are jobs where knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and cultures, as well as the ability to communicate sensitively with Indigenous Australians, are required. Generally they will involve the development or delivery of Indigenous specific policies, programs or services.
Your experiences as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person may assist you to meet the identified criteria used in these positions. You do not have to identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander to apply for an identified position.
How do I find the right job for me?
The Indigenous Careers page links to a range of affirmative measure and identified position opportunities—click here to access current vacancies.
However, Indigenous people are encouraged to apply for jobs in all areas of the APS, regardless of whether they are advertised under one of these provisions.
Info sheet 4 provides general information on entry points into the APS, including traineeships, cadetships and graduate programs.
In the know
We are working towards improving employment outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the APS. You can find out more on our indigenous employment page. Many APS agencies will have indigenous employment strategies on their websites. These tell you more about the steps agencies are taking to improve employment outcomes for employees who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.