Multiple Positions Available (ASO Talent Pool). Are you ready to be part of a team that drives inclusion initiatives for the state? This is an exciting opportunity for career development, to gain experience across policy, strategy, project, people and community-focused roles through structured rotations
Contracted role up to 2 years. Launch your graduate career with DHS! Join our 2027 Graduate Program and help all South Australians to thrive.
About the Graduate Program
The Graduate Program is a rewarding way to kick-start your corporate 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.
Through a structured rotational program, you will gain experience across different teams and areas of the department, aligned with your qualifications, interests and career pathway. These rotations will provide exposure to diverse work environments, broaden your skills and knowledge, and help you build a strong foundation for your future career.
As a DHS Graduate, you will:
• begin your career with a 2-year employment contract, commencing in February 2027
• participate in structured professional development and training courses throughout the program
• gain experience across different roles relevant to your qualification and career pathway, via regular rotations
• build your professional network and to connect with fellow graduates and early career professionals
• develop skills that will accelerate your long-term career.
Our employee benefits include:
• annual salary increases within your pay range, subject to satisfactory performance
• public sector leave entitlements, in addition to annual and sick leave
• flexible working arrangements
• superannuation with member benefits
• discounted gym and health facilities membership through Fitness Passport.
Who we’re looking for
We're looking for graduates from a wide range of degree backgrounds who:
• are motivated to make a positive impact in the community
• enjoy solving problems and thinking critically
• communicate clearly and work well with others
• are adaptable and willing to learn
• value diversity, inclusion and collaboration
• take initiative and are organised in their approach to work, our corporate graduates work across a wide range of areas across the department, including community services and programs, social and legal policy, strategy development, Aboriginal Practice and Partnerships, human resources, and more.
Eligibility
• you have completed a minimum three-year degree from a registered university in the last 3 years (2024 – 2026); or will have your qualification before the employment start date of February 2027
• you are an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or have an appropriate visa that allows you to work in Australia
• 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 stream, listed within the attached ‘How to apply - ASO’ 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.
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 until the date and time of expiry
• prepare a resume of no more than three pages and a two-page cover letter with your response to below questions. Use examples from your work, studies, or volunteering experiences to illustrate your answers
1. What attracted you to apply for the DHS Graduate Program?
2. How do your personal values align with the core work that DHS delivers to the South Australian community?
3. What are the three biggest strengths that you bring to the DHS Graduate Program?
• provide at least two referees in your current resume, with one being your current or most recent manager
• provide a copy of your parchment or academic transcript (an unofficial transcript is fine if you are in the final year of your studies)
• please view our Job Application Guide to help you prepare your application
• eligible candidates will be invited to participate in an assessment centre held in October 2026
• if your application is successful, you will receive a contract offer in December 2026.
Please ensure to submit all the required documents, as delays in providing these may result in your application not being considered. We understand that you may use AI to prepare your application, and that’s okay. What is important however, is that you are honest in the information you provide. We also want you to be your authentic self by demonstrating your values, skills, and understanding of the role.