Graduate experiences

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The opportunities I received as a graduate at the PC well exceeded my expectations. I was given full responsibility and ownership of my work, including a 30-page briefing on Indigenous research methodologies and a dedicated chapter on electronic waste for our Circular Economy inquiry. This allowed me to develop my critical thinking, policy analysis and writing skills greatly.

Based in Canberra, I was also able to travel to the Melbourne office several times for training and team planning days, which was lots of fun. I was also involved in multiple-day site visits in regional NSW and Queensland, listening to and engaging with communities on important policy issues.

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The PC is an excellent place to start a career in economic policy. The scale and scope of the work we do, and the PC’s willingness to invest in its staff, provide many opportunities to learn and grow.

In my first year I received training in economic modelling techniques that I had never seen at university and applied what I learned to several projects.

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I am grateful to have started as a graduate at the PC. The people exceptionally kind and supportive, and I've felt very empowered to contribute seriously to our policy research from the beginning.

The PC is a place where I can access many opportunities to try new things and grow my skills, as well as meet people with a wide range of interests and perspectives on public policy.

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Starting as a graduate at the PC has been the ideal starting point for my career. From the very beginning, the people have been super welcoming and there has been ample opportunity for personal and professional development.

The Commission’s flat structure has meant that my opinions have always been valued and I have actively contributed to interesting and important policy issues.

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I’ve worked on a variety of projects since I started as a graduate at the Commission, ranging across topics such as housing assistance, the tax and transfer system, transport regulation and education.

I enjoy that there is always something new to learn, whether that is about a particular sector or an analytical technique.

Since gaining more experience, I’ve also been able to contribute to broader organisational improvements and development opportunities, which have been fulfilling roles.

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The PC’s graduate program has been perfect for me. There was enough support for me to feel comfortable whilst also having the trust and responsibility to contribute something substantive.

Opportunities for growth have been provided generously. My ideas have all been taken seriously, and within a few months I hardly felt like a grad at all, but rather an equal member of the team.