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As Australia’s largest child protection agency, we’re always on the lookout for bright, resilient and passionate graduates to join us. At the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), you’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children, families and communities across NSW.
Whether you’re finishing university or already graduated, there are exciting opportunities to build your career through the DCJ Graduate Program.
"This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. The support, friendship, and guidance you get from this program is so helpful and comforting. This is an opportunity for a new step in your career alongside so many people that are there to support you."
- Emma Ash - Social Work stream graduate in the Social Work Stream (Child Protection).
The DCJ Graduate Program is a structured 18-month program offering hands-on experience, professional development, and a permanent role on completion.
At DCJ, graduates can join a range of streams that reflect the diversity of our work and the breadth of skills needed across the organisation. These may include:
Regardless of stream, all graduates receive:
Each stream is offered based on organisational need each year, ensuring graduates are placed where their skills can have the greatest impact.
All DCJ graduate roles are advertised via the NSW Government Graduate Program – iWork for NSW - Graduate Program.
Raja Chainuli:
I'm Raja Chainuli, and I'm in the Legal stream of the NSW Government Graduate Program.
I've been fortunate enough to work in both the private and public sectors before starting the program. In private practice, I found the work to be quite transactional, in the sense that you're often solving problems within a smaller frame.
When I moved into a government role, it really felt like, "This actually matters on a much bigger scale." You're not just advising your client; you're part of decisions that affect communities and real people's lives. That level of accountability makes you think differently about the work you do.
What excites me most is that the work isn't just theoretical. You can see how what you do impacts real people and the community, so even as a graduate, you feel like you're contributing to something meaningful.
I would say, just go for it, even if you don't feel like you tick every box. I came to Australia four years ago as an international student with absolutely no idea how the government worked. What stood out to me was how fair and structured the program was. I also found the recruitment process to be incredibly inclusive.
Everybody brings something different, and that diversity makes the whole experience much richer. So even if you don't have everything figured out, just go for it. It's one of the best places to start your career.
One choice. Endless opportunities.
If you’re passionate about making a difference, DCJ is the place to grow your career. Whether through the Graduate Program or a student placement, you’ll gain valuable experience, professional development, and the chance to create real change.
Explore opportunities and apply through iWork for NSW and visit us Jobs at DCJ.
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