The Australian Public Service (APS) gives veterans a way to keep serving Australia in a civilian career. APS employees help shape, deliver and improve the policies, programs and services Australians rely on every day. This can include work in national security, border protection, health, emergency management, community services, infrastructure, the economy, the environment, data, technology and support for veterans and families.
For many veterans, APS work can feel familiar in important ways. It is values-led, mission-focused and centred on outcomes for the Australian community. It also offers the chance to use your Defence experience in a new setting, while building new skills and networks across government.
Use the skills you already have
Defence service builds capabilities that are valuable across the APS. Depending on your background, these may include leadership, planning, logistics, operational delivery, stakeholder engagement, people management, training, risk management, governance, communication, problem solving, technical expertise and working effectively under pressure.
Work with purpose
APS roles contribute to outcomes that matter to Australia. You could help deliver services to the public, support government decision-making, manage programs, strengthen national capability, improve systems, or help communities access the support they need. Whatever the role, APS employees share a commitment to serving the Australian community.
Build a flexible and varied career
The APS offers roles across many agencies, job types and locations. Opportunities may be ongoing or non-ongoing, full-time or part-time, and include flexible working arrangements depending on the role, agency and team needs. Over time, you can move between roles, agencies and professions to build a career that matches your skills and interests.
Join a values-led workplace
The APS is guided by the APS Values: impartial, committed to service, accountable, respectful, ethical and stewardship. These values may align strongly with the standards, integrity and service focus many veterans bring from Defence.
Continue learning and growing
Starting an APS career does not mean starting from scratch. Your experience matters. APS roles can give you the opportunity to apply what you already know, learn how government works, develop new professional skills and progress into different roles over time.
If you are unsure where you fit, start by looking for roles that match your strengths rather than your Defence job title. Focus on the work you have done, the problems you have solved, the people you have led or supported, and the outcomes you have delivered.