Frequently asked questions
When do applications close?
Applications will close Thursday 22 September 2011.
Due to tight time frames with the graduate recruitment process, extensions may not be granted.
How do I apply?
Applications will need to be submitted online.
If you are having difficulties applying online please contact graduate.recruitment@comcare.gov.au or contact the contact officer on 02 6160 3936 or 02 6276 0303.
What APS Level are the graduate positions?
Graduates will commence at the APS 4 level.
What is the pay scale for the 2012 Graduate Development Program?
Successful candidates that are offered a generalist position will have a starting salary of $59,350 plus 15.4% superannuation with pay point progression.
Are there any special conditions I will need to meet?
Graduate positions are opened to Australian citizens.
Will I be kept updated on my application throughout the process?
Applicants will receive emails updating them of the status throughout the process. These emails will provide applicants with information on the next stage or if they were not successful in moving to the next stage of the process.
When does the Graduate Development Program commence?
Comcare’s Graduate Development Program will commence in mid-February 2012. Successful candidates will need to be available to commence with the agency no later than 20 February 2012.
How long does the Graduate Development Program run?
Comcare’s Graduate Development Program runs for 12 months. A formal Graduation Ceremony will be held at the end of the program.
What level of qualification do I need?
Comcare is seeking graduates from a range of educational backgrounds (including Information Technology). Graduates will need to have completed an undergraduate degree with a credit average or higher.
Where will I be working?
Comcare is located in Canberra with a number of regional offices situated in capital cities across Australia. Comcare’s regional offices are located in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Newcastle.
All graduate positions will be based in Canberra.
If I have to relocate, will Comcare provide relocation assistance?
Comcare provides relocation assistance if employees are asked to relocate, temporarily or permanently. Assistance includes three weeks short-term accommodation, associated travel costs to relocate to Canberra and removal costs.
Will I be a permanent employee?
Comcare Graduates are engaged as ongoing permanent employees within the APS.
Will I be subject to a probationary period?
Yes - the probationary period for Graduates is 12 months. Graduates are required to successfully complete the requirements of the Graduate Development Program.
I’ve finished the 12 month Graduate Development Program - What next?
Graduates that wish after the 12 months to apply for a higher APS level are encouraged to do so but will need to apply through an open competitive merit process.
What sort of training will I get?
Comcare is committed to providing a comprehensive training and development program in your first year of employment. The program will include two work placements (temporay placement and permanent position), technical and corporate training as well as on-the-job experiences.
Business areas may also provide you with further learning and development opportunities that are specific to your work area.
Does Comcare support further study by Graduates?
Comcare has a Studies Assistance Program available to Graduates on the completion of the Graduate Development Program. Comcare’s Studies Assistance Program includes generous financial and leave assistance.
Are there other ways of joining Comcare without being a Graduate?
Comcare jobs are advertised on the APS Jobs website and the current vacancies page on the Comcare website.
Comcare also has a Temporary Employment Register that interested people can submit an application for non-ongoing positions.
Why do I have to have a medical assessment?
An Australian Government medical clearance is a standard condition of employment at Comcare. The medical clearance is designed to ensure that you are fit to work to work at Comcare. Only candidates successful in the final selection process are required to undergo a medical check.
What type of support will I have as a Graduate at Comcare?
Comcare provides Graduates with a number of support and social networks during the Graduate Development Program.
Graduates are allocated a buddy (a previous Comcare graduate), a mentor (at the executive level) and also a dedicated Graduate and Training Coordinator who oversees the program and provides advice and support during the year.
In addition to these support networks, Graduates will have a direct supervisor, which whom they report.
Graduates are also provided with membership to the Social Network of Graduates (SNoG). The network is a collective group of Graduates from all APS agencies and provides Graduates with the chance to meet and network with other graduates during the year and participate in activities such as a Ski Trip, Trivia Competitions and the SNoG Ball
Where do I find out more about Comcare?
Comcare’s website is www.comcare.gov.au.