Graduate Employment

What kind of work do graduates do?

Graduates are engaged in all aspects of the Commission's work. As a new member of Australia's leading microeconomic research organisation, you will be working alongside leading economists on issues of vital importance to the economic well-being of all Australians.

Recent graduates have contributed to research on a variety of topics including science and innovation policy; competition policy; regulatory reform; the environment; labour market developments; and the determinants of productivity.

What can I expect from my first year at the Commission?

The Commission is a team-based organisation. From day one, new graduates work with, and learn from, experienced economists as they contribute to the Commission's highly regarded research and policy advice.

In addition, the Commission provides dedicated training for new graduates to improve their analytical and communication skills.

Who are you looking for?

We are looking for motivated graduates who want to apply their analytical skills to a wide range of economic and social issues, including economic and social infrastructure, competition policy and regulation, trade, environmental and natural resource matters, and general economic policy.

The Commission's work calls for people with a strong background in economics, especially microeconomics, who are interested in investigative analysis. Additional skills in quantitative research including econometrics are highly valued.

Skills in law and other social sciences may also be beneficial in working at the Commission.

What are the opportunities for career development?

The Commission's diverse and challenging work program provides an invaluable opportunity for economists to develop their analytical and communication abilities. As you progress through the Commission, we will help you develop your project management and leadership skills.

In addition, the Commission's role in reviewing and recommending policy changes, places its staff at the forefront of economic and social policy development.

Where will I be working?

The Commission has two offices - one in Canberra and one in Melbourne.

Both offices have inquiry and research teams, some of which have specialist functions. For example, in the Melbourne office there are teams which research labour market and environmental issues. In the Canberra office, there are teams which specialise in econometric modelling, trade issues and regulatory economics.

Over time and depending on the Commission's needs and individuals' interests, Commission staff can change teams (generally within the same office).

What does the recruitment process involve?

The recruitment process involves a single interview, conducted by two to three staff members.

The interview gives you the opportunity to find out more about the Commission and for us to find out a little more about you.

 

The interview questions focus on identifying your strengths in economic analysis and project management.

We also ask you to provide an example of written work (such as a major essay) and for the names of some referees that we can contact.

Are there opportunities for further study?

The Commission encourages its staff to pursue further studies.

Paid leave and financial assistance is available for approved full-time study. Assistance, including flexible work arrangements, is also available for those wishing to undertake part-time study. Several staff members are currently undertaking Masters in Economics.

How many vacancies are on offer?

In recent years, the Commission has typically offered around eight graduate positions - four each in the Canberra and Melbourne offices.

Does the Commission provide relocation assistance?

In addition to providing temporary accommodation while you look for a place to live, the Commission will reimburse all reasonable moving expenses.

Do I have to be an Australian citizen to apply?

Successful applicants must be Australian citizens before receiving offers of permanent employment with the Commission. For further information, you may like to refer to the Australian Public Service Commission information about Citizenship in the Australian Public Service.

Please note that a successful applicant will be asked to provide proof of citizenship on commencement.

When do I start?

This is subject to negotiation, but most new graduates commence employment in January.