A career move made by Aiden Young three years ago has seen the University of Newcastle graduate rise through the ranks of the New South Wales Government's public sector.
Mr Young's career growth comes after the proud Kamilaroi man joined the award-winning New South Wales Government Graduate Program in 2021, after completing a Bachelor of Marketing and International Relations.
After joining the Program, Mr Young received a range of on-the-job experiences as well as tailored learning and development across three graduate placements over 18 months, including at the Aboriginal Housing Office.
He said cultural recognition has become increasingly prominent throughout his time as an NSW Government employee.
"I've noticed the importance of cultural safety becoming more and more recognised throughout NSW Government since I started here," he said.
"There's a real effort to improve understanding."
Like other NSW Government graduates, Mr Young gained a full-time role after finishing the program.
He now uses his skills, experiences and networks developed through the Graduate Program as a Communications Advisor in the Department of Customer Service, working on internal communications for Service NSW.
The New South Wales Government is now inviting and strongly encouraging Aboriginal applicants for its 2025 graduate program, with previous work experience not necessary.
The program offers five streams, including digital, engineering, legal and social work opportunities. Applicants will receive on-the-job experience as well as tailored learning and development, as well as access to networking events, a mentor and executive sponsor.
The program assures ongoing permanent employment for graduates with exceptional performers fast-tracked to a higher level.
Successful candidates receive a generous starting salary plus superannuation, are given the opportunity to contribute to community outcomes and is suitable for candidates looking to start their career or take a new direction.
Applicants must hold hold a current visa permitting them to work full-time in Australia for the 18- month duration of the program until 9 August 2026, have completed their undergraduate or postgraduate degree between 1 June 2022 and 31 December 2024, and be available to start full- time work on 3 February 2025.
Interested parties are encouraged to attend a Graduate Information Session, which is being held on Wednesday 24 July from 12:30-1:30pm .
Applications for the 2025 NSW Government Graduate Program are now open.
This report was produced with the support of the NSW Government Graduate Program.