The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) is a research bureau within the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). The ABARES Stream is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of research and policy, applying what you have learnt at university or the workplace to interesting and challenging problems.

• Combine Research and Policy: Do meaningful research that shapes national policies and helps manage Australia's precious natural resources. Your research and advice will directly influence decisions that matter, from climate change to international trade.

• Grow Your Career: Take advantage of extensive training and development opportunities, including hands-on experience, specialised courses, and workplace rotations. You'll gain the skills and knowledge to excel in your career.

• Join a Dynamic Team: Collaborate with experienced professionals in a supportive and proactive environment. Our aim is to ensure you work with the best in the field, and that you are integrated into a team that is passionate about making a difference.

The Program

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) is a research bureau within the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).   The Graduate Development Program - ABARES Stream is a 12-month program where you will have a unique role in the Australian Public Service, working at the intersection of research and policy.

The research part of ABARES means you will apply what you have learnt at university or the workplace to interesting and challenging problems.

The policy part of our work means that you will collaborate with colleagues in DAFF and other departments, helping to shape Australian Government policies to improve the wellbeing of Australians. ABARES provides the opportunity to work on some of the biggest challenges facing Australian agriculture, from increased global trade protectionism to the design of biodiversity and carbon markets.  

At ABARES ideas matter and, as a graduate, we will value your existing skills. From your first week on the job, we will provide an engaging and challenging environment for you to develop and broaden your skills and experience and progress your career. We also promote work life balance, so you will have the time to pursue hobbies and other interests outside work.

Who we are looking for

Our graduates come from a broad range of backgrounds, study areas and life experiences. We are interested in high achieving and motivated graduate and early career economists, mathematicians, statisticians, computer scientists and physicists. Applicants do not need to have a background or experience in agriculture, fisheries or forestry industries. 

What you will do 

• Collaborate: Work as part of a proactive and integrated research team.

• Research and analysis: Provide evidence and advice to support policy and industry decision-making.

• Develop Skills: Enhance your abilities through formal and on-the-job training activities.

• Learn: Participate in an in-house agricultural policy course taught by subject matter experts.

• Train: Receive training in writing, presentation, data analytics, and modelling.

• Engage: Get involved in ABARES seminars and conferences, including National Outlook.

• Rotate: Experience different roles through workplace rotations within ABARES and the Department, gaining a broad understanding of DAFF's work.

The program provides several benefits to graduates including:

• a competitive remuneration package with salary/level advancement during, and on successful completion of, the program.

• access to a network of people including a dedicated Entry Programs Team who will provide guidance and support.

• a formal course through the Australian Public Service Commission Academy. This course provides development activities, brings graduates together from across the APS to build understanding, networks and cross-agency collaboration. 

• Workplace rotations. Within the ABARES stream you will spend the majority of your time in ABARES with an opportunity to use one rotation in another area of the department to broaden your experience.

• attending Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) graduate events.

• inclusion in our graduate network, access to a buddy and engagement with the executive.

• relocation assistance if moving interstate or from a remote location to the closest regional location. 

• flexible work arrangements.

Please note that Graduates commence at the APS 4 level ($77,728 per annum plus superannuation; equivalent to APS 4.1). Graduates may progress to an APS 4.2 ($80,371 per annum plus superannuation) part way through the program following an assessment of their work performance. On successful completion of the program, Graduates advance to the APS 5 level ($88,834 per annum plus superannuation).

Please note most positions will be Canberra and Melbourne based.

Mandatory qualifications

A degree in economics, mathematics, statistics, computer science and physics. Transcripts must be provided as part of your application.