Excel in a data or digital career in the APS while completing your university degree

As a cadet you’ll make use of your degree and interests while gaining valuable industry experience, solving problems and making a difference to the Australian community.

About the program

The Australian Public Service Commission has created a Pilot Program in partnership with the University of Newcastle and James Cook University to bring more data and digital skills to the APS.

Who we're looking for

We’re seeking cadets with:

  • curiosity
  • an aptitude for data, digital or technical disciplines
  • an interest in building on your skills.

Benefits  

You will receive:

  • guaranteed part-time employment while you finish your degree and full-time employment on completion
  • the opportunity to apply your university studies to a wide range of different data and digital projects
  • an academic allowance of up to $800 per unit for up to 4 units per semester
  • on the job support, career guidance and professional guidance throughout the program.

The program runs for 1 to 3 years, depending on how long you have left at university.

Eligibility 

To be eligible for the Data and Digital Cadet Program, you must:

  • be an Australian citizen at the time of application
  • have completed one year or equivalent of a digital or technical degree at the commencement of the program
  • have a minimum of one year of study remaining when the program starts
  • be able to pass a national police record check
  • have, or willing to obtain and maintain an Australian Government security clearance.

Degree programs and study subjects

Data cadetships welcome applicants studying a wide range of degrees and study subjects. For example, analytics, physics, engineering, social sciences, psychology or finance.

Review the eligible digital degrees or qualifications and check if you qualify for the program.

How to apply

Applications for the Data and Digital Cadet Program 2026 are currently open and close on 22 June 2025. Learn more about the cadet program and how to register.