Accredited courses from leading Australian universities, TAFEs and colleges
Qualification Level
Accredited courses from leading Australian universities, TAFEs and colleges
A diplomat manages Australia’s ties with foreign governments and global bodies. They act as the official voice of Australia at posts overseas. DFAT runs a global network of over 100 embassies and consulates where diplomats work. Entry is competitive and requires a bachelor’s degree, Australian citizenship, and strong thinking skills.
The role covers a wide range of tasks. These include policy work, trade support, consular services, and public outreach. Diplomats often focus over time on areas such as trade policy, security, or regional affairs. Their work directly shapes foreign policy decisions at the highest levels of government.
DFAT mainly recruits through its graduate program, open to graduates from any field. Relevant degrees include international relations, law, economics, and languages. Further study can help a candidate’s case for specialist and senior roles. Clear writing, a second language, and overseas experience are highly valued.
Career growth follows the APS pay system, from APS 4 at entry level to EL2 and SES at senior levels. Ambassadors and High Commissioners are set at SES or ministerial level. Pay ranges from around $75,000 at entry level to $165,000 for senior staff (DFAT Enterprise Agreement, 2024).
Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.
