What's your job about?
I work for the Department of Industry, Science, Energy & Resources (DISER) and am a member of the 2021 Graduate Development Program cohort. As a Graduate at DISER, I’ve been provided with tremendous opportunities to explore my interests and get involved in a variety of policy areas. For instance, when I was completing my rotation in Strategic Policy, I worked on a submission to the Senate Select Committee on Job Security. I found this work particularly interesting given the relevance of Job Security in Australia’s economic recovery from COVID-19. Alternatively, in my current placement with the Resource Economics team, I’ve been able to contribute to the Resources and Energy Quarterly publication. Working within the resources space has enabled me to hone my analytical and quantitative skills.
What's your background?
I undertook a Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy & Economics (Honours) at the University of Queensland in Brisbane and spent some time completing an exchange programme abroad in Germany at the University of Tubingen. In my view, the degree I studied was distinctly generalist in its tone and provided a strong foundation for working at DISER. In particular, I think my educational background
means that I tend to feel comfortable considering public policy through a variety of frameworks which has definitely come in handy.
Could someone with a different background do your job?
Absolutely! One of the wonderful things about DISER is that it has portfolio responsibility for a broad range of policy areas. The department is always interested in the unique skillsets brought by different people and how they can be applied and there are plenty of opportunities for both qualitative and quantitative minded people. Whilst there are specific teams that may require a legal or STEM background, most teams only require strong interpersonal skills and the capacity to work capably with others.
What's the coolest thing about your job?
Without a doubt, the most fascinating aspect of my job is working on matters with national significance.
It’s incredibly rewarding working on or having responsibility for a project that may appear in the news or which is going to really benefit members of the Australian community.
What are the limitations of your job?
In my view, working for the public service is an incredibly rewarding opportunity and the benefits far exceed any disadvantages. One possible limitation is that graduates are required to relocate from their home city to Canberra for the period of their programme. Coming from Brisbane, moving south meant exploring a new part of the country and getting used to a new climate. However, with the right outlook, the opportunity to work and live in a new city while meeting people from across the country can be an incredibly positive experience.
3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...
If I had to provide 3 pieces of advice to myself when I was a university student, I would: