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We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the ACT, the Ngunnawal people and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region.

Join Canberra’s workforce after you finish your studies

Graduates in Canberra enjoy strong employment outcomes.

In fact, Canberra has Australia’s highest employment rate and the highest average income.

Graduate programs

Applying for a Graduate Program with Canberra’s biggest employers – the Australian Government  and ACT Government – can be a great way to kick start your career. You’ll be exposed to multiple aspects of government business and work on different projects that can potentially impact the local community or the entire nation. Working in the public sector can offer a rewarding career but is usually limited to Australian citizens or permanent residents. Speak to the recruitment officer to find out more.

Private employment

Canberra has a thriving private sector where you can experience working for all the smallest of grassroot organisations to the biggest multinationals. More than 60% of Canberra’s jobs, across more than 25,000 businesses, are in the private sector. Our key growth industries are hiring, with big opportunities in renewable energy, space science, information technology and cyber security, agricultural technology, and environmental sciences to name a few.

ANU’s Mt Stromlo campus is just one of Canberra’s space science hubs

Reaching out to professionals through past interning experiences, networking events and faculty connections can help you get your foot in the door and identify opportunities. Using online websites like seek.com or registering with recruitment agencies are other great ways to test the employment market.

Remote and flexible work

The arrival of COVID-19 saw a rise in remote and flexible working arrangements, and in many cases, employers continue to offer these benefits. Don’t want to leave Canberra’s great lifestyle? Check out what remote opportunities are available in your field.

Further your studies

Finished off your honours or masters and still itching to learn some more? Check out what paid Post Doctorate opportunities are available. This can be a great way to continue learning and earn an income.

UC student Peter McDonald using a Sensory Organisation Testing System.

Be your own boss

Perhaps you don’t want a job at all. Canberra welcomes new ideas and is the ideal choice to start or grow a business. Support for start-ups is available through a range of services, such as the Government-funded Canberra Innovation Network which empowers entrepreneurs to make an impact through accelerator programs, workshops, coaching and funding.

Published date: 29 Jan 2023
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Finding work and professional experience

Working, or undertaking internships and volunteering roles are a great way to boost your real-world experience, meet new people, and earn an income while you study.

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Interested in studying in Canberra?

Contact the Study Canberra team for information and advice