The Australian Public Service Academy is encouraging young Public Servants to consider an overseas posting to gain hands-on experience in the field of multilateral international cooperation.
According to the Academy, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s (DFAT) Junior Professional Officers (JPO) Program sees APS officers sponsored under a bilateral agreement between the United Nations (UN) and DFAT for assignments within specific UN organisations, for up to three years.
“JPOs become UN staff members and international civil servants for the duration of their assignment, where they acquire invaluable skills, new knowledge and intergovernmental experience for a future career in the multilateral space,” the Academy said.
“The Program also allows candidates to work with some of the world’s leading experts in the multilateral space, thoroughly enriching their learning experience,” it said.
“The initiative also benefits the APS as the UN, with offices in 193 countries and 37,000 employees, is the world’s largest universal multilateral organisation, and of unique importance in ensuring that Australia has the international influence needed to protect national interests, sovereignty and values.”
The Academy said DFAT would sponsor up to 16 JPOs per year, who would need to be current ongoing APS employees, Australian citizens and no more than 34 years of age at the time of application.
It said candidates would also need to have a strong understanding of Australia’s strategic priorities and policy interests, hold an advanced university degree and have a minimum two years of relevant professional experience.
“JPO placements present a unique opportunity for young Australian Public Servants to collaborate with intergovernmental institutions to maintain peace, advance human rights and promote justice, equality and development,” the Academy said.
Further information on DFAT’s JPO Program can be accessed at this PS News link.
