Frequently asked questions

When does Queensland Treasury's graduate program start?

Placements are offered for either a July or February commencement each year.

What is the starting salary?

The current starting salary is $46,120 per annum (effective 1 July 2008). Other benefits include 12.75% superannuation and 17% loading on annual leave, taking the total package to $52,603 per annum. 

What is the closing date for the application?

Applications for the 2010 program close at 3pm on Friday 16 October 2009.

Am I eligible to apply?

To be eligible to apply you must have completed graduate level study within the last two years or be due to complete your degree by December 2009. It is acceptable for you to be currently completing postgraduate studies with a completion date of greater than December 2009. 

Examples of eligibility are provided as follows:

Eligible – Bachelor of Economics completed November 2007 and currently completing Master of Commerce with expected completion in November 2010.

Not Eligible – Bachelor of Law/Bachelor of Arts with expected completion in June 2010.

Not Eligible – Bachelor of Business completed June 2004 and currently completing Master of Commerce with expected completion in June 2010.

What degree discipline should I be studying and what grade should I be looking to gain to be eligible for the program?

This depends on your area of interest within Treasury. As far as disciplines are concerned, Treasury traditionally employs graduates from economics, finance, law, business, maths and statistics, and information technology. We have also on occasion employed graduates from other disciplines depending on available vacancies. We are looking for students who have sound achievements in their studies and display the professional qualities needed to perform a graduate role within Treasury.

I am an international student…can I apply?

Applications will only be accepted from international students if you have already applied for Permanent Residency (PR) Status and are still awaiting the outcome. Permanent appointment to the program cannot be made without PR Status.

What is the selection process?

The selection process is undertaken in three stages. The first two stages are managed by the Graduate Coordinator. Stage three comprises face-to-face interviews with the hiring business areas. More detailed information about the selection process is provided on the graduate program page.

What will Treasury offer me?

Treasury's graduate program offers you an opportunity to easily transition from university to work and utilise the skills and knowledge you have gained from your studies. The formal program (as opposed to general employment opportunities) provides a structure of on-the-job learning, performance feedback and training and development. You will also have the opportunity to build your networks through a series of internal and external forums. In addition, you will have job security, variety of work and mobility within the department and the Queensland Government. 

What about career progression opportunities?

Career opportunities are open to you. Traditionally, graduates are very successful in gaining promotions within Treasury either during the graduate program or on completion. The graduate program provides you with the opportunity to develop your business acumen and experience needed to progress within the organisation.

When can I expect a response from Treasury after my application?

Applicants will be kept informed of the status of their application throughout the process. If you are successful in gaining an interview, you should expect to receive notification of the outcome within two weeks with the total application process taking no longer than two months.

What's expected of me in the first day/month?

Expectations are similar to any new employee joining an organisation. For example:

• participating in induction or branch activities
• making notes and listening to information provided
• accepting that it may take time for you to become familiar with Treasury and your role
• maintaining open discussion with your supervisor.

What kind of support will I get?

During the graduate program you will have the support and guidance of the Graduate Coordinator as well as your supervisor or manager. You will also have the support of past graduates. You also have the opportunity to participate in Treasury’s mentoring program.

What kind of training and development plan is offered?

During the 12-month graduate program, you will undertake training programs to complement your on-the-job learning. A number of these programs have a core Treasury focus and the remainder are offered on an optional basis, allowing you to choose the programs which best meet your needs.

Last reviewed 28 September 2009