What’s your job about?

Being a part of the Department of Industry, Science, and Resources (DISR) graduate program isn’t just one job. In my time so far, I have worked as a communications officer in Science & Technology Strategic Communications and the R&D Tax Incentive and even acted as an executive assistant for a Deputy Secretary. The latter was quite a remarkable opportunity, as that’s a lot of high-level insight, not many people get. All this has given me a wealth of experience across various parts of the department, constantly learning along the way.

What’s your background?

Before joining DISR, I was a full-time journalist. I did stints at newspapers across Western Australia and was a managing editor for an online publication focusing on video games and esports. I also studied a double major of Journalism / Global Politics and Policy at Murdoch University. I have always been a storyteller, but I’m also keenly interested in policy and strategy, which makes this line of work particularly perfect for me.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

The DISR graduate program is open to all. Given the diverse nature of the work, it’s not a case of could someone with a different background do the job—different backgrounds are a necessity. In fact, I’m the one with a different background compared to many of my peers, and the program has been nothing but accommodating to me. While my previous experience has certainly helped in some respects, if you are open-minded and willing to learn, you can flourish.

What’s the coolest thing about your job?

Working for the APS is probably the coolest thing about it. It was a dream of mine to get into public service and do some good every day with my work. You get to learn about so many different areas. That feeling alone is incredibly rewarding and motivating.

What are the limitations of your job?

The only major drawback of starting out in the APS is the Canberra-centric nature of work. If you are unwilling to lift your roots at the start, then it can be difficult. However, there is a lot of mobility and flexibility after the graduate program, which means you can work from anywhere in Australia.

3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student…

1. Take part in extracurriculars and practical learning as much as possible. In my first year at university, I started a student society. It gave me invaluable practical experience, which translated into other lines of work.
2. Don’t stress over grades: While grades can help get you opportunities, work experience looks much better on a CV. If you can’t get an internship or placement, investigate certain solo projects you can undertake—I wrote for the student newspaper and maintained a blog!
3. Take your time: You can feel under pressure to find the right degree in your first year and stick it out. I swapped my degree midway through, and most of my friends did the same. Don’t feel obliged to rush through and burn yourself out.