Applications are open for employers in the first round of the Community and Social Services Graduate Program.

This initiative is a collaborative partnership between NDS, the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) and other sector peak bodies. It aims to increase the number of graduates entering and staying employed within community and social services.

The pilot graduate program is a new pathway for employers looking for graduates with relevant Diploma, Bachelor, or Masters qualifications to start a rewarding career within their organisation. While we acknowledge these qualifications may not be relevant for disability support worker roles, graduates with these qualifications may bring value to organisations as team leaders, program coordinators, case managers, or even in areas such as policy and advocacy, project work, and service-redesign; all relevant in the current reform environment.

Employers will receive $8000 funding per graduate and other resources to provide a positive early-career experience to graduates. Investing in a rich and rewarding graduate experience will help us retain more workers in the sector to meet current and future demand.

Applications are open for the first round of the program. There are two pathways for organisations to participate:

1. Employ a new qualified graduate starting their career in community services.

New graduates are being recruited to the sector through the Graduate Resource Centre (GRC), a specialist community services workforce function that connects graduates with information and community services careers. The GRC will help you find a graduate that is a good fit for your role and organisation.

2. Nominate an employee that meets the eligibility criteria and was recently employed by your organisation (within 12 months).

Applications close Friday 12 July.

For more information visit go to the graduate program’s webpage, where you can apply or download the fact sheet.