Graduate Profile: Arts (Hons)

Name: Nick Winton
Degree/s Awarded: Bachelor of Behavioural Science/ Bachelor of Arts Hons (Criminal Justice)
Position Gained: Policy Officer
Organisation: Australian Government Attorney-General's Department
Commencement Date: February 2006

Could you give us a description of what your position involves?

I am currently working as a policy officer in the Illicit Drugs Section of the Australian Government Attorney-General's Department. In this role I contribute to the development and implementation of policy related to the national law enforcement of Australia's illicit drug strategy. My primary role is to manage and provide strategic direction for several discrete projects under the National Precursor Chemical Strategy. Part of my work also involves preparing correspondence, submissions, reports on illicit drug policy and briefing material for the Minister. One of the other key components of my work involves establishing and maintaining strong working relationships with Commonwealth, State and Territory agencies and other external stakeholders. This has involved both inter-state travel and attendance at a number of high level meetings and forums.

With your experiences in securing employment what advice would you give to students?

It is important to have a balanced range of experiences. Every person that applies for a graduate program has a degree. Therefore the degree itself will not win you the job. Obviously excellent academic results help, however if you are able to demonstrate that you have a range of skills gleaned from a range of experiences it can play a significant role in helping you to stand out from the crowd. Work experience, volunteer work, travel experience and team based activities (for example team sport) can clearly demonstrate that you bring a lot more to the job than just your academic background.

Can you briefly describe the application process relevant to your position?

I became aware of the Attorney-General's Department graduate program while searching the internet for career options. Once I decided to apply I completed an online application and provided a copy of my résumé and a list of three referees. Once I had made the initial shortlist I had a formal interview. This process involved four components: a traditional interview component, a role playing exercise, an in-tray exercise simulating potential work conditions and a writing task. Following notification that I had received a position with the Attorney-General's Department graduate program I then undertook security and health checks. It is a very well managed and flexible process and the Department provides significant support in guiding potential graduates through the process.

Do you have any further helpful hints for students and graduates?

When you are applying for a job, be confident. Just think about it...how could a panel have confidence in your ability to do the job if you don't?

Sell yourself. Panel's always interview a lot more people than they hire. You need to let them know what skills you bring that make you the right person for the job.

Do some research before you apply. Simply stating the skills you have is ok. But if you have an awareness of the work that the Department does it is easier for you to explain how you can utilise and apply your skills to the work you will be doing.