Are you seeking a career with a difference? As a graduate you will work in a dynamic and challenging field where your skills and expertise can enhance national and global security.
Whether you're studying law, technology, mathematics, arts, linguistics or accounting – the National Intelligence Community (NIC) is looking for graduate applicants like you with diverse skillsets from a range of academic backgrounds. The Intelligence Stream is a pathway to a Graduate Program in a participating NIC agency.
Applications for the 2026 Australian Government Graduate Program - Intelligence Stream have now closed.
Eligibility requirements
To qualify, you must:
- Be an Australian Citizen.
- Be in the second last or final year of your studies, or have completed your degree by the end of 2026.
- Have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher in the last three years.
- Be willing to undergo a thorough security clearance and suitability assessment.
Why choose us
PURPOSE AND MEANING
Make a tangible impact and contribute to a higher purpose by safeguarding and protecting the interests of Australia and Australians—your community.
COMPETITIVE SALARY AND JOB SECURITY
Your journey starts with a permanent APS Level 4, and a competitive salary plus superannuation.
WORK-LIFE BALANCE
In the NIC, your wellbeing is a priority. Where possible, we offer a range of flexible working options to help you balance your personal and family commitments with your professional life, fostering fulfillment and flexibility.
CHALLENGING WORK
Tackle complex problems, contribute to national security, and thrive in an environment that constantly pushes you to grow and excel.
About the Intelligence Stream
Clearing each step of our multi-stage application process ensures your placement in the Intelligence Stream merit pool. This, in turn, enables any participating NIC agency to potentially connect with you. Upon a successful pairing, you will have the opportunity to join the specialised graduate program of the respective agency.
Candidate Information Guide
Explore the comprehensive details of the Australian Graduate Program - Intelligence Stream through our informative "Candidate Information Guide." This guide provides valuable insights into program offerings, essential application requirements, and the exciting opportunities that await graduates.
Intelligence Stream - Candidate Information Guide
Participating agencies
Discover the agencies participating in the upcoming intake of the Intelligence Stream on the APSJobs Graduates Portal www.apsjobs.gov.au/s/graduate-portal/streams(Opens in a new tab/window).
Choosing your path: the specific NIC agency or Intelligence Stream?
If you aspire to work for a specific NIC agency, you may also consider applying directly to their graduate program. The Intelligence Stream provides an additional pathway into the NIC.
Commencement date
Graduate roles for the 2026 Australian Government Graduate Program – Intelligence Stream, are anticipated to commence in 2027. In order to be offered a position, you must obtain a Top Secret Positive Vetting/Privileged Access security clearance. This process may take up to 18-24 months to complete. Obtaining this clearance is a crucial requirement for you to receive a formal offer and commence your role as a graduate within your matched agency.
Why you need a security clearance
Access to security classified resources requires you to hold an appropriate security clearance. You can find further details on security clearances and the vetting process involved at www.intelligence.gov.au/security-clearances
Program duration and location
NIC agency graduate programs typically span 12 months. The program's location depends on the agency, with many offered in Canberra.
A day in the life of a graduate
Each day as a graduate varies across agencies, often involving rotations through different work areas. You will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in targeted, rotation-specific training and development, equipping you with the skills and knowledge for meaningful work.
You can find general agency-specific information at www.intelligence.gov.au/agencies
Who we are looking for
Our ideal candidates are problem solvers, innovative thinkers, open to growth and new ways of thinking, and are ready to make a difference.
We welcome graduates with degrees in various fields, including but not limited to:
Intelligence
- criminal law
- criminology
- global studies
- international relations
- linguistics
- international security
- sociology
Technical
- cyber security
- computer science
- data analytics
- engineering
- programming
Corporate
- policy studies
- human resources
- finance and accounting
- legal
- communications and media
- project management
Application process
The Intelligence Stream's application process is multi-stage, requiring successful completion of each step to progress to the next stage.
Intelligence Stream - Frequently Asked Questions
