Careers with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just send in a resume or CV if I'm interested in DFAT positions?
No. We don't retain expressions of interest, CVs or resumes. You will need to apply for an advertised vacancy by addressing the selection criteria.
Can I do temp work with the Department?
How does DFAT conduct general recruitment?
The department advertises general (bulk rounds) and specialist vacancies.
Bulk rounds
We run large generic selection processes at Broadband 1 (APS Level 2), Broadband 2 (APS Level 4), Broadband 3 (APS Level 6) and Executive Level 2 levels. Bulk rounds at each level are usually held annually. Applicants for these positions are assessed against generic selection criteria. Successful applicants are assigned to positions following their selection. An order of merit may be drawn on to fill any further vacancies which arise within 12 months of the original gazette notice.
The bulk rounds for APS Levels 2 & 4 are generally to fill vacancies in corporate positions only, whereas APS 6 and Executive Level 2 selection processes are held to fill both foreign and trade policy, and corporate positions in the department.
Corporate duties include managing consular, passports, security, property, human resources and finance functions. Corporate positions could be in any division or work area of the department.
Specialist or 'ad-hoc' vacancies
For specialist vacancies, we recruit people for particular positions which require more specialised skills and experience. Examples of such positions are Information Technology Officers, Legal Specialists or Accountants. Successful candidates in specialist selection processes must work in a position for three years before being eligible to apply for an internal transfer, such as to a State Office or another Division, or for an overseas posting.
Does the Department have a particular format for applications?
Yes. Applications must be submitted using the electronic application form for each vacancy. You will find more information about this in the Application Guidelines found on the careers page.
The selection process is based solely on applicants' comparative merits for the position against the selection criteria. You will be asked to include the contact details of two referees with your application. It is up to you to demonstrate to the committee that you meet all criteria and that you are the most suitable person for the job. The selection committee (usually three members) will determine applicants' relative suitability for the position based on applications, interviews and referee comments. Applications that do not address the selection criteria will usually not be short-listed for interview.
Do I have to work in Canberra?
Yes. Unless otherwise stated in a vacancy notice, all staff are recruited to Canberra. Successful applicants are required to work in a Division in Canberra for two years before being eligible to apply for an internal transfer, such as to a State Office or another Division, or for an overseas posting.
Do I need a second language to work for the Department?
No. While a valued skill, a second language is not essential to working in the department. If a specialist position requires fluency in a particular language it will be stated in the advertisement and the selection documentation - for example, for an Indonesian Translator position. Otherwise, we do not use language proficiency in the general recruitment process.
Do I need qualifications to apply to DFAT?
No. Most positions we advertise do not require any specific qualifications. Should a particular vacancy require specific qualifications, this will be clearly stated in the advertisement and in the selection criteria. Qualifications will usually be stated as 'essential' or 'highly desirable' e.g. tertiary qualifications in accounting are essential and CPA accreditation is highly desirable. If the qualifications are stated as essential, applicants without these qualifications will usually not be considered. If they are stated as highly desirable, applicants who can demonstrate equivalent skills, knowledge and experience will normally still be considered.
I do not currently work for the public service and don't know what level to apply for?
The selection documentation provides a reasonable idea of what skills and abilities are required for any advertised position. Information about the staffing structure (levels) is available in the Collective Agreement (pdf) .
Where can I find out more information on the position I am interested in?
It is strongly recommended that applicants read the Application Guidelines before calling the contact officer. The contact person whose name and number is listed on the vacancy notice can provide information on the duties of the vacancy. Candle ICT has been contracted by the department to carry out the administration of DFAT selection processes and to manage our temporary employment register. If you have any questions related to the application process, please contact Candle ICT via email at dfat@candlerecruit.com or by phone on (02) 6260 7533.
If I'm successful, can I start straight away?
No. If selected for a position with DFAT, you will need to undergo a standard medical/fitness examination and a security clearance before you can commence work. DFAT security clearances are conducted by the Australian Protective Service (APS). As part of the clearance process, APS will assess information obtained from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) among others. This process can take up to three to six months. If you are not successful in obtaining a security clearance, DFAT will not be able to employ you.
Is there a separate Diplomatic Section that I could apply to?
No. Only permanent employees of DFAT may apply for postings to our Embassies, High Commissions, Consulates and Offices overseas.
Can I apply for overseas work in any other way?
Yes. Our overseas missions do hire locally-engaged staff, predominantly for administrative work. If you think you will be living near an Australian mission, and will meet that country's labour law/visa requirements, you need to contact the relevant mission directly to ascertain whether there are any vacancies. The website has a list of DFAT missions overseas, including their contact details.
Can I undertake work experience with the Department?
We are unable to offer work experience for students and others because of strict security requirements.
How can I apply for an internship with the Department?
The Australian National Internships Program is run by the Australian National University, in conjunction with all Australian universities. Applications and inquiries should be made to the ANU. For more information about the internship program (academic requirements and application forms etc) contact the University on Ph: (02) 6125 8540 or Fax: (02) 6125 8541 or visit their web site.
How does the department conduct graduate recruitment?
Information about the department's Graduate Recruitment Program can be found on the Graduate Recruitment page.
Need more information?
Contact Candle ICT via email at dfat@candlerecruit.com or by phone on (02) 6260 7533.
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