Amber's graduate story: Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander pathway, generalist stream

Pronouns: She/her/hers
Studied: Bachelor of Science, majoring in Zoology
Stream: Generalist
Pathway: Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander pathway
Home department: Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA)

About me

Before applying from the program, I was studying a Bachelor of Science and majored in Zoology at Melbourne University. I’ve always been interested in the unique interactions between fauna, humans and the surrounding ecosystem, and how climate change will impact these relationships.

When I am not at work, I love to hang out with my housemates either binging TV shows or painting on canvases. I also love going to Pilates, concerts, being out in nature and going for walks through the Botanical Gardens.

What ‘Working with purpose’ means to me

‘Working with purpose’ means using any opportunity I am provided with to drive me to not only care for country, but to also uplift and support other mob working within government.

Why I applied

In university I participated in the Barring Djinang internship program. When I graduated, I was encouraged to consider applying for the VPS graduate program, and thought, “why not?”. With no specific expectations, I took the leap.

Looking back, I am immensely proud of challenging myself, stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing this opportunity. This program has turned out to be an amazing experience, and it has transformed me both in my personal and professional growth.

Where I worked

My 3 rotations were:

• Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA)
• Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA)
• Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC)

Throughout the year I have been able to work on a wide range of projects and tasks. This included consulting with managers and producing the DEECA Capability and Logistics Action Plan 2024, creating templates and working on policies and procedures for conservation regulation. I also worked on events for First Peoples – State Relations and helped to organise the Victorian Aboriginal Honour Roll.

Tell us about hybrid working

I really enjoy the flexibility and convenience of hybrid working, and it really helps with my work-life balance. It has also enhanced my self-directed learning skills and has encouraged me to communicate more effectively with team members and to put myself out there.

Overall experience

I enjoyed so many aspects of this program, but the following are things that made me particularly proud to come to work:

• networking with other Aboriginal staff, and learning about their experiences, challenges and triumphs while working in the public sector
• participating in the NAIDOC Week events, specifically attending the Aboriginal film festival and being able to watch some incredible Aboriginal filmmakers share their culture, art and storytelling
• attending the Crown Lands Australasia Forum in WA, which provided me with an opportunity to engage with like-minded professionals, and delve into crucial discussions about the housing crisis and climate action.

The best parts of this program have been the connections I have made. Having the support of the Aboriginal Employment Unit and the grads in the pathway has created a safe community that I am grateful to be a part of.

Advice for people considering applying through the pathway

I would encourage you to research the program prior to applying to help confirm whether it resonates with your career and/or personal aspirations.

Remember to be persistent and resilient, regardless of the outcome. Everything happens for a reason, so don’t worry over the chance of rejection, but instead use any fear you may have to boost your drive and confidence.