2022/23 University Vacation Employment Program (UVEP) (Rolling Intake)

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts (the department) is responsible for the design and implementation of the Australian Government's infrastructure, transport and regional development policies and programs, and is the lead agency for communications and the arts. We are at the forefront of the Australian Government’s efforts to connect our communities, secure the nation’s economic future, improve living standards, provide access to high quality communication services and ensure all Australians can enjoy diverse artistic and cultural experiences.

The opportunity we have available

Our University Vacation Employment Program (UVEP) is an 8-12 week paid summer internship designed to provide an opportunity for university students to experience a taste of Government. 

Our interns are an important part of our workforce, which is why we provide a diverse range of internships which could see you (but not limited to):

• Regulating airports;
• Helping set the course for Australia’s digital future;
• Developing policy that protects our cultural heritage;
• Working on the development of the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport;
• Assisting with the design and development of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics
• Providing advice on strengthening our national broadcasters;
• Developing policy for broadband, open data and media;
• Working on the development of the Inland Rail;
• And so much more!

We encourage applications from all disciplines and you can be sure that your work will be contributing to the future productivity, liveability and sustainability of Australia. No matter what placement you are in, you will take part in an exciting, rewarding and challenging experience that will support your future career. 

If you have a strong vision for Australia’s future and are seeking a career where you can make a real difference in the lives of all Australians, we encourage you to apply to the program! 

What can we offer? 

Interns will have the opportunity to work in a way that enriches Australian communities, empowers Australian regions and leaves a positive impact for generations to come.

You will gain valuable on the job experience, the opportunity to develop your capabilities, create networks in a professional environment and the chance to showcase your skills in the workplace. 

You will work alongside a leadership team with a vast array of subject matter expertise across a range of fields.

We offer flexible commencement dates to work around your university schedule, with a choice to work a minimum of eight weeks up to 12 weeks, depending on your availability. 

The department promotes a positive, inclusive and adaptable workplace and wants all interns to feel welcome and excited by their work from the start of their professional careers.

Who are we looking for? 

We are looking for Interns that are innovative, curious and future-focused, with a desire to learn and to help shape Australia’s infrastructure, transport, regional development, communications and creative industries. 

To be eligible for the University Vacation Employment Program, you must:

• Be an Australian Citizen;
• Be completing an undergraduate degree as a minimum (applications are accepted from students at any point in their study);
• Be available for your placement between November 2022 and February 2023;
• Be available for a minimum of 8 weeks and up to 12 weeks;
• Be prepared to relocate to Canberra for the program if you are from interstate; and
• Be able to meet the department’s security requirements.

All of our positions are primarily located in Canberra however, there may be scope for placements in our regional offices. Any successful interstate candidates will be responsible for their own travel, accommodation and associated costs for the duration of the program.

How to apply

Applications for the 2022-23 University Vacation Employment Program will open on 
Monday 11 July 2022 and close at 11:59pm (AEST) on Monday 15 August 2022.

Your application should include:

• A CV (of no more than two pages in length),
• The details of two referees (professional referees preferred but not mandatory), and
• A response to the following two questions (of no more than 500 words per question):

1. What has motivated you to apply for the University Vacation Employment Program at the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts? Based on current your skills and capabilities, what are you hoping to achieve throughout the internship?
2. Our Department has identified five values that encapsulate the behaviours and professional capabilities needed for your success: Collaborative, Respectful, Informed, Adaptive and Accountable. Considering these five values, can you tell us which value resonates with you the most and why? 

Your application must be received through the Department's online Vacancy News System.

For further information on the 2022-23 University Vacation Employment Program, please contact the Entry Level Programs team on (02) 6274 6800 or via email at [email protected]