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We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the ACT, the Ngunnawal people and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region.

Working in Canberra

Unfold exciting career opportunities in the most resilient economy in Australia. It’s a graduate’s world in Canberra.

Make an impact

We are a hotbed for innovation and business growth, where new technology flourishes and leaders make big decisions. A drawcard to working here is the way government, industry and education intersects. In Canberra we collaborate to drive change.

Work on something cutting edge

Knowledge is our city’s superpower. It’s how we attract leaders, innovative thinkers, Nobel Prize winners, artists and researchers. We’re a progressive and inclusive city, big on imagination. That’s why we’re often chosen as the test bed for new technologies, such as autonomous vehicles and drone delivery.

Connection is strong between the public and private sectors. It’s strengthened by services like:

Find world-class career opportunities

We’re on the cutting edge in several key sectors. For example, the CSIRO’s Deep Space Communication Complex is run on behalf of NASA. Students gain hands-on experience as part of the country’s leading space and spatial sciences degrees.

Similarly, health and sports sciences students have access to the Australian Institute of Sport. It’s where many of our current and future star athletes train to compete on the world stage.

Our strong economy means secure jobs

Businesses thrive here. Canberra has one of Australia’s most resilient economies. That means your career is safer in Canberra’s hands.

Nationally, we have:

  • the highest national average income
  • a diverse employment market
  • the lowest unemployment rate
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Work while you study

Part-time and casual jobs are easy to find. Students fill most of our casual roles.

Internships and work experience

You’ll find a great mix of internship and work experience opportunities in public and private organisations. Your education provider may offer internships as part of your studies. If not, you can directly approach an employer to ask for work experience.

Services on and off campus can help you find internships and work experience related to your studies.

Volunteering

We’re the volunteering capital, with the highest participation rate in Australia. Getting involved is a great way to contribute to your community. You’ll meet new people and get hands-on work experience. There are a wide range of charities and non-government organisations that offer volunteer work for students.


After you graduate

You’ll find exciting career options across the private and public sectors. We attract bright thinkers, ready to make a real difference.

Private enterprise loves Canberra

This is a base for multi-national corporations keen to establish and grow their presence in Australia. More than 60% of our jobs, across more than 25,000 businesses, are with the private sector.

Business thrives here. Each year, the Canberra Innovation Network has more than 10,000 visitors. It hosts over 250 events for business innovators, entrepreneurs and start-ups — a sign of our investment in great ideas.

Graduate programs in the public sector

The Federal and ACT Government’s graduate programs kickstart strong careers. With attractive pay and conditions, you’ll contribute meaningfully to your community and the nation. It’s a great way of gaining real-world experience. You’ll be exposed to multiple aspects of public service and find your place.

There’s more time for ‘life’

Live in a city designed for convenience. Nowhere in Canberra is more than 30 minutes away. The shorter commute means more time to get out and enjoy things beyond work.

Our standard of living is among the highest in the nation. We have a vibrant culture with year-round events no matter where your interests lie. All of this, with beautiful national parklands and open spaces to explore.

Moving here also means being part of a greener future. We’re the first mainland Australian city to run on 100% renewable energy.

Related Pages

Living in Canberra

Our modern and convenient city offers open spaces, along with vibrant entertainment options. See why we’re considered one of the best student cities in the world.

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Why study in Canberra

Join the eclectic mix of people who call Canberra home. Mingle with other students from around Australia and the world. Take advantage of close access to researchers, scientists, artists, leaders and athletes and more.

Read more

Innovation & tertiary education

Canberra is the innovation and education capital of Australia.

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Interested in studying in Canberra?

Contact the Study Canberra team for information and advice