Careers at NIAA

Indigenous Apprenticeship Program

‘I chose the NIAA because it's an Indigenous orientated organisation, they offer great support and benefits for our mob and myself. So far, NIAA has encouraged and inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and gain self-confidence, and also the opportunity to build a career.’
Zipporah, 2023 IAP participant.

A pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to start their careers in the Australian Public Service (APS).

The NIAA participates in the Indigenous Apprenticeships Program (IAP), we offer placements across Australia. Providing participants with the opportunity to contribute to our Agency's vision and make a real difference in their community. Apprentices commence at APS2 or APS3 in an ongoing role and are supported to obtain a formal qualification. They also receive pastoral care including a buddy and mentor and the opportunity to undertake on the job training during the 12 month program.

If this program sounds like something you would be interested in applying for visit Services Australia Careers or contact entrylevelprograms@niaa.gov.au.

Australian Government School Leaver Program

‘The best feature of the NIAA is the team culture and the opportunities and support the Agency provides for School Leavers. Everyone is passionate in achieving and contributing to the Agency’s goals and vision as we continue to work towards closing the gap.’
Amelia, 2023 Career Starter.

Entry level pathway program for candidates that have completed a Year 12 certificate (or equivalent) in the previous two years.

The NIAA participates in the Australian Government School Leaver Program (AGSLP), with placements in Canberra and potentially other advertised locations. Providing participants an opportunity to grow and develop their skills in a supportive and flexible environment, while receiving pastoral care including a buddy and mentor. Commencing at APS 1 in an ongoing role with opportunities to advance to APS 2 at completion of the program, and support to study a Certificate IV in Government or Human Resources.

For more information visit the Autralian Government School Leaver Program or contact entrylevelprograms@niaa.gov.au.

Abilities Program

The Abilities Program is designed to create pathways for people with disability into ongoing employment within the Agency and the broader Australian Public Service (APS) and act as a stepping stone towards a participant’s long-term career aspirations.

The NIAA participates in the Abilities Program, with placements in Canberra and potentially other advertised locations, the 12 month program commences at the APS 3 with an opportunity to advance to APS 4 at completion of the program. Participants receive pastoral care including a buddy and mentor, and are supported to complete study options as part of the program.

To find more information on the AAP visit DSS Ability Apprenticeship Program or contact entrylevelprograms@niaa.gov.au.

Digital Traineeship Program

The Digital Traineeship Program (DTP) aims to increase digital employment opportunities in the APS.

The NIAA intends to participate in this new program, with opportunities across Australia at the APS 5 and APS 6 classifications for a 12 month program in an ongoing role. Participants are supported to complete a Certificate IV or Diploma (or equivalent) in a digital or ICT discipline.

For more information visit the DTP page on APS Jobs or contact entrylevelprograms@niaa.gov.au.

NIAA Graduate program

The NIAA Graduate program offers you to be part of something bigger than yourself. 

At the NIAA, we work in genuine partnership to support the aspirations and empowerment of First Nations people. We can’t do this without our people. 

Our NIAA Graduate Program runs for 12 months, you will have access to buddies and executive mentors, along with professional and personal development opportunities to help shape your career. You will have the opportunity get involved in policies and programs impacting Australia and our communities, with options to work in the Policy and Program, Corporate and Enabling, Operations and Delivery streams.

‘Since joining the NIAA Graduate Program I’ve set up a new life in a new city, I’ve taken charge of my career in a way that allows me to be the decision maker for what interests me, what drives me. The Graduate Program really allowed me to get a full range of opportunities that’s really informed my decision about my career.'
Isabelle, 2021 NIAA Graduate

Our Graduates benefit from:

• Various work locations—Canberra, Brisbane, Darwin, and Perth are all options.
• The Agency is unique, providing endless opportunities and great diversity in our roles in policy and program areas such as employment, justice, education, health and wellbeing, housing, business economics, environment. We also have roles in grant management, engagement, enabling services and much more.
• We are a diverse, inclusive and passionate workforce with an emphasis on continuous cultural learning and tailored professional development. We collaborate with communities across Australia, all levels of government and many other invested stakeholders.
• Competitive salary – graduate positions commence as an APS 4 and are considered for advancements to APS 5 and APS 6 on completion of the program, plus generous superannuation and relocation assistance.
• Consists of three rotations through various work areas with a potential rotation in one of our metropolitan, regional or remote locations.  

Check out this video for Chrissy Doolan, An NIAA Graduate about her insights on the Program.

Below is a breakdown of the recruitment process for the 2025 NIAA Graduate Program.

Other Graduate Programs

You can also join us through the following whole-of-government graduate programs under the Australian Government Graduate Program (AGGP) professional streams. For more information including how to apply, visit:

• Indigenous Graduate Program
• Human Resources
• Data
• Accounting and Financial Management

Contact us

• Email: EntryLevelPrograms@niaa.gov.au.
• Telephone: 02 6215 1000.