About the Program
Kickstart Your Career and join our University Vacation Employment Program (UVEP).
Are you a passionate university or postgraduate student eager to gain a rewarding experience? Our UVEP Program offers a paid internship designed to give you a head start in your career within the Australian Public Service (APS).
We are looking for enthusiastic university and higher degree students to join our UVEP Program.
Through the UVEP Program, you will get a firsthand look at what it's like to work in Government, explore a wide range of roles, and contribute to meaningful projects that impact the lives of Australians. This is more than just short-term opportunity, it's a chance to grow professionally, build valuable networks, and make a real difference.
At the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) we work to:
- Protect Australia’s natural resources
- Develop strong agricultural industries
- Deliver policies and programs for a strong economy.
Your Role
Our UVEP Program offers a comprehensive learning and development opportunity designed to support your professional growth. The program runs for six weeks during the university summer break, from January to February each year.
During this time, you will:
- Receive a paid a salary.
- Gain experience in our department’s priorities.
- Work on interesting projects with professionals and researchers in their field of interest.
Benefits
Benefits of the UVEP Program include:
Comprehensive Support and Networking: Benefit from a dedicated support team, and access to the department’s entry programs network.
Dynamic and Collaborative: Engage as a valued member of a team in a dynamic and collaborative environment, while gaining valuable experience working alongside and learning from experts in their respective fields.
Connect and Build: Make connections that matter and discover career pathways into the department, including entry into our Graduate Development Program.
What do our interns have to say?
Hear firsthand from past UVEP interns, explore diverse career pathways, and gain insight into the day-to-day experience of working at DAFF.
Lakshmi
Senior Policy Officer
Intern
The UVEP program introduced me to the wide range of work undertaken by the department. It offered valuable learning opportunities that allowed me to expand my skills and experience, ultimately serving as a stepping stone toward joining the department’s graduate program. Additionally, the program connected me with a strong network and supportive mentors who continue to guide me throughout my career.
Eligibility
- Applications are accepted from all disciplines and at any point of university studies.
- No corporate work experience is required.
- Be available to undertake a six-week placement
- Be an Australian Citizen
How to Apply
Applications for the 2026 UVEP program will be opening soon!
Check our job listings. You can register a ‘job alert’ for upcoming recruitment rounds.
Contact us
To learn more about our programs or speak with someone directly, please email us at entryprograms@aff.gov.au.