Career Pathways Data and Digital Programs
JCU Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus has partnered with the Australian Public Service Commission to offer the APS Academy Campus initiative, an exciting opportunity to gain experience in key public service priority areas and earn money while you learn.
The APS Academy Campus program creates a hub of local talent and connects them to the Australian Government. Participants are employed in entry level programs and work remotely for departments within the public service. Benefit from targeted professional development opportunities and network with teams from across several Government departments.
Not only will you gain degree-relevant experience while you study, but many positions come with a guaranteed permanent position in the Australian Public Service once you graduate. You’ll receive dedicated mentoring opportunities and support to find your pathway within the public service.
Data cadet program details
Discover where an aptitude for data can take you, with the Data cadet program. Develop the skills to draw on data and communicate insights, use data to inform decisions and solve problems within the data collection and analysis process. Data cadets work a minimum of 2 days per week, on a flexible working hours arrangement, building collegial networks, gaining hands-on learning, and analysing the connections between their studies and wider applications.
The Data Cadet program is open to Australian citizens who have completed at least 1 year of a Bachelor's degree and have at least one year left to complete, or be currently enrolled in a relevant postgraduate program. Successful participants can receive reimbursement for some course fees (up to $800 for passing grades) and may also be eligible for credit towards their degree. You’ll remain in the program until you graduate, where you’ll be offered a full-time role in an APS agency, with a remuneration package up to $58,000 plus 15.4% super.
Applicants studying subjects related to data science, data analysis or statistics are welcome to apply, particularly from the degrees and disciplines of:
- Actuarial studies
- Data science or mining
- Computer science
- Engineering
- Physics
- Economics
- Econometrics
- Finance
- Mathematics
- Machine learning
- Psychology
- Social sciences or statistics
Digital cadet program details
Explore the opportunities offered by a digital career pathway. Discover the importance of digital know-how to departments and disciplines across the public service, as you determine the field that’s right for you. Digital cadets work a minimum of 2 days per week, on a flexible working hours arrangement, to develop practical skills in diagnostics, problem-solving and communication and forge connections between their studies and wider applications.
The Digital Cadet program is open to Australian citizens who have completed at least 1 year of a technical or digital focused Bachelor's degree, and have at least one year left to complete. Successful participants can receive reimbursement for some course fees (up to $800 for passing grades) and may also be eligible for credit towards their degree. You’ll remain in the program until you graduate, where you’ll be offered a full-time role in an APS agency, with a remuneration package up to $60,000 plus 15.4% super.
Previous applicants have worked in the following agencies:
- Services Australia
- Australian Signals Directorate
- Department of Education and Employment Services
- Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources
- Department of Finance
- Department of Defence
To find our if your degree is eligible for this program, click here.
Digital apprentice program details
Engage in hands-on learning and develop your problem-solving skills with the Digital Apprentice Program. Aimed at both school leavers and those considering a career change to a technology related field, this program runs for 2 years full-time. You may find yourself working in areas including cyber security, data analytics, software engineering, web development and more.
As part of your role, you’ll complete a Certificate IV in a digital field, which is paid for by the program. Gain valuable experience while you learn and emerge with a full-time job offer within a division of the Australian Public Service. Your total remuneration package can be up to $53,000 plus 15.4% super.
Previous applicants have worked in the following agencies:
- Australian Signals Directorate
- Australian Public Service Commission
- Department of Education, Skills and Employment
- Services Australia
- Digital Transformation Agency
Where the program can take you
Any entry level program provides a fantastic introduction to your chosen career path. Working in an entry level role while studying enables you to discover the direct connections between what you’re learning, and your chosen career path.
However, the APS Academy Campus initiative is tailored to provide additional support and guidance for later-year students.
Participants benefit from dedicated campus supervisors, who can provide career advice, professional development and support and supervision to help you master the skills required by your new role. The position comes with a membership to the Data and Digital Professions Network, meaning you’ll be encouraged to create networks with experts within the field and make connections that will endure throughout your career.
Graduates of the program are afforded several professional opportunities. With many positions guaranteeing a role within the APS, you can continue your career and move up the ladder as you expand on your original role. Depending on the department, you may be offered a role in your current location, or a remote role, empowering you to continue contributing to your regional community. You may also choose to transfer to a new and exciting location or department, exploring the flexibility of the APS.
Application information
Our straightforward application process enables you to find your fit within our program. Here’s how you can apply:
Explore the opportunities currently available at https://www.apsjobs.gov.au/s/data-and-digital-programs
Select the program you wish to apply for and commence the online application process.
As part of this application, you will be required to submit the following documents:
- CV/resume
- Academic transcript or confirmation of enrolment, where required
- Written responses to application questions.
There are three stages of the selection process for APS Campus initiative roles:
Step 1: Submit your application. You'll be advised whether you have progressed to the next stage.
Step 2: Attend an online interview with the selection panel.
Step 3: Meet with participating agencies. At this stage, you can nominate your preferred placement. At the end of the process, you'll be placed with an agency based on your skills and experience and their operational needs.
If you're not successful at a particular stage, you’ll be informed via email and will receive feedback on the merits of your application.
Contact us
If you’d like to learn more about the APS Academy Campus initiative, or have questions for our expert team, please contact us at: careerpathways@apsc.gov.au.