What is the best way to get into your graduate program?

To get into the Western Australian Department of Health Graduate Development Program you have to complete an online application via jobs.wa.gov website. The application requires you to answer some set questions and include a copy of your academic record. You are only eligible for the program if you have completed tertiary study sometime within the last two years.

What about timing?

Applications for the corporate stream usually open late in July and close late in August.

What type of grads are you looking for?

The Department of Health is interested in graduates from a diverse range of backgrounds. There really is no set degree you need to have completed, it is all about transferrable skills and the passion and interest you have for the healthcare system. This was a real relief for me because my degree was very general!

How can I stand out?

You need to show your interest in and knowledge of the health system and articulate how you can contribute to improving this system. Public sector positions are ultimately concerned with how you can contribute to the broader community e.g. the provision of safe, sustainable health services to all Western Australians.

Anything else?

Make sure you proofread your written application carefully. There are hundreds of applicants each year and spelling or grammatical errors will not get you through!

Once you get through the written application stage there are two stages left: the group interview or written assessment and an individual interview.

In the group interview stage you will need to show that you are a team player. Department divisions and units are very team-work focused; therefore, the ability to work well in a team is an essential requirement.

The questions in the final interview will be informed by the position requirements and job description form which are available online when you apply. Get to know the requirements of the position and prepare examples based on these and on the online application questions. My final piece of advice for the interview would be: practice, practice, practice!

What are some key attributes of successful candidates?

Successful candidates must demonstrate leadership qualities and a willingness to develop their leadership skills throughout the program and beyond.

Another key attribute of all successful candidates is an interest in contributing to the continuous improvement of the WA health system.