Public Services

Public services keep the country running and its people safe, from police, fire, ambulance and defence to councils, government departments, courts and community services. Governments are the largest employers in Australia, and the work spans everything from frontline emergency response to policy and administration.

It's a great fit if you want stable work, like helping people directly, and are drawn to a role with a clear purpose. You can join through a traineeship or a recruit program, study at TAFE or university, and move between agencies as your career grows.

At a glance

Job outlook
Growing fast
Population growth and demand for frontline, care and community services mean more roles every year.
Median salary
$90,000
most between $65,000 and $120,000
Roles not requiring ATAR
69%
across 144 occupations
Roles and settings
144
On the front line, in the community or in an office, on shifts or nine to five.

Sources: O*NET, ACIR, Jobs and Skills Australia

Why Public Services?

Stable, well-paid work with a purpose, across the widest range of roles of any industry.

The widest range of roles
Even the entry-level roles pay well
Lots of non-ATAR ways in
Job security and clear career steps

Do you have any questions about Public Services? Just ask me!

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Industry outlook

Variety of roles
From paramedics and police to policy officers and rangers, there are more distinct roles here than in any other industry.
A pathway for everyone
Apply to a recruit program, start with a traineeship, do a TAFE diploma, or study at university and join a graduate program.

Entry requirements

Typical ATAR range: Not required for most courses; 60.00 – 92.00 for degree pathways
Prerequisites: A police check and a Working with Children Check for most roles; Australian citizenship for many government, defence and police roles.
Pathways: On-the-job work, VET qualifications, university/TAFE degrees, or traineeships.
Duration: Months to years, depending on the chosen pathway.