Defence Graduate Program – Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation (AGO)

AGO's intelligence officers also work on a distinctive technical focus. As the exploitation of imagery is a key AGO activity, they place great importance on maintaining and developing their capability to use new technologies in areas such as remote sensing. Their intelligence officers liaise closely with Defence Science and Technology Group, national research organisations, academia and industry to help AGO make the most of emerging technologies.

AGO's intelligence officers have a wide variety of specialist skills and knowledge including geographic information systems (GIS), information technology (IT), scripting and applications development, web services, design and functionality, database management and analysis and remote sensing in several disciplines, including radar, spectral and infrared. Their intelligence officers research and apply advanced techniques, and develop and transition valuable technology into operational applications or provide high-end technical support to analysts.

AGO also has several large-scale Defence projects that must be delivered over the next few years. In 2016, the Australian Government announced funding for space-related capabilities in the 2016 Defence White Paper. AGO is the lead agency for the DEF799 project to build the ground infrastructure to provide Australia with direct and timely access to commercial imaging satellites and deliver Defence's geospatial intelligence space-based capabilities over the next 30 years.

In order for AGO to deliver valued scientific and technical advice and building on these future capabilities, there is a need for a highly-skilled science, technology, engineering and mathematics workforce now and into the future.

A day in the life of an AGO intelligence officer

• AGO work on a variety of interesting and stimulating team-based activities including:
• Working on short and long term intelligence tasks within professional, dedicated and enthusiastic teams.
• Researching and answering high-level intelligence questions and providing geospatial intelligence to Australian Government customers and others.
• Supporting the Australian Defence Force as an integral partner in its programs and operations.
• Liaising and working in collaboration with other Defence Intelligence agencies, as well as broader National Intelligence agencies, to fulfil the Australian Government's intelligence needs.
• Undertaking continuous tradecraft training and professional development to enhance skills and expertise.
• Representing AGO at a variety of conferences and events in Australia and internationally.
• Undertaking further tertiary study aligned with the work of the organisation.
• Representing AGO on an overseas posting.

Quick Details

Salary: $68,442 pa + 15.4% superannuation. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will advance to APS 4: $76,215 pa + 15.4% superannuation.
Program: 12 months - 3 x 4 month rotations
Eligibility: Australian Citizens only
Location: Canberra (interstate rotations outside of Canberra are available)