• Multiple Vacancies Available 
• Exciting opportunity for career development
• Be part of a team that drives inclusion initiatives for the state
• Only people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent may apply (pursuant to Section 56(2) of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984).

Role Details

Launch your graduate career with DHS!

Join our 2025 Graduate Program and help South Australians to thrive. 

What we offer 

The DHS Graduate Program is a challenging and rewarding way to kick-start your career. You will have opportunities to make a difference in the lives of South Australians while working on a range of projects, policies and services to support either our frontline staff, or to deliver vital services within the community.

We recognise and value the cultural knowledge and life experience that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people bring to the workplace and we are committed to increasing the participation of Aboriginal people across all areas of the department. DHS has identified a number of Graduate positions within the program to be held for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We are running a special recruitment process and invite only people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background to apply.

The DHS Graduate Program includes: 

• 2-year graduate contract to commence in February 2025. 
• 12-month structured calendar of induction, professional development and mentoring.
• Option to conduct your initial 12 months within 2 areas of the department (6-months each).
• A corporate or allied health stream with tailored skills development relevant to your degree and career pathway. 

Enjoy a range of employee benefits:

• Flexible working arrangements; working from home, flexi-time, part-time, job sharing, and compressed weeks.
• Public sector leave entitlements
• Superannuation with member benefits
• Discounted gym and health facilities membership through Fitness Passport 
• Networking events to build your professional network and to connect with fellow graduates.  

Who we’re looking for 

We’re looking for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduates with passion and integrity who are committed to making a difference in one or more of our business areas. The following list indicates areas in DHS that may be hosting Graduates in 2025:

• Aboriginal Programs and Partnerships
• Closing the Gap Policy and Transformation
• Early Intervention Research Directorate
• Safer Family Services
• Screening
• Concessions and Interpreting Services
• Community and Partnerships
• Office for Women
• Office of the Chief Executive and Governance
• Disability Services
• Exceptional Needs Unit
• Youth Justice
• Business Information and Technology
• Organisational Development and Learning
• Finance and Business Services. 

Eligibility

• You have completed a minimum three-year degree from a registered university in the last 3 years (2021 – 2023); or will have your qualification before the employment start date of February 2025.
• You identify as an Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person
• You have not previously completed a graduate program within, or hosted by, the South Australian Public Sector.
• You have completed an eligible degree in the corporate or allied health streams listed within the attached ‘How to apply’ document.

About DHS 

Our purpose is to make a difference so South Australia thrives.  

We do this through service delivery, grants and funding for youth justice, disability accommodation, cost of living concessions and rebates, employment-related screening, and family safety and support. 

We also lead important government reforms in disability inclusion, intensive family support services and women’s equality and safety. 

You can find out more about what we do here. 

How to apply 

• Check your eligibility and follow the application process set in the below ‘how to apply’ documents. 
• You can submit your application via the Careers Portal at the Apply Now link.
• Please view our Job Application Guide to help you prepare your application. 
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview in November/December 2024.
• If your application is successful, you will receive a contract offer in December 2024. 

Special Conditions

About the Business

Contact Us

Diversity And Inclusion

DHS is committed to making our services and workplaces safe and inclusive for all people and ensuring the full diversity of the communities we serve are represented in our workforce, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability and/or neurodivergence, young people, older people, culturally and linguistically diverse people, LGBTIQA+ and gender diverse people.

We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a positive, barrier-free recruitment process. If you require assistance with this process, please contact us at [email protected] using the subject line: Aboriginal Graduate Officers enquiry via EthicalJobs and a member of the team will get back to you.

The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working, including part time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss flexible working arrangements for this role.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply. We also celebrate the many strengths and skills people with disability and/or neurodivergent people bring to our workplace and acknowledge our role in ensuring a supportive work environment for people with disability and/or neurodivergent people to thrive in.

Application Instructions

Resume and Cover Letter

You are required to submit a cover letter, up to a maximum of two pages, addressing how your skills, attributes and experience meet the role specific capabilities and attach your current resume via the online application form. For more information about applying, refer to our Job Application Guide.

If you are new to the department and are invited to an interview, you will be required to produce a National Police Check, which has been issued within six months of your application for the role. National Police Checks can be applied for via the South Australia Police or through an Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission accredited body.

If the role you are applying for also requires an Employment-related Screening Check, you will be required to undergo such assessment as is advised by DHS, including periodic assessment during your employment.