Graduates

I was inspired to apply for graduate programs in intelligence and law enforcement agencies because I wanted to make a positive difference in society. I was particularly drawn to agencies that have biometrics capabilities. When I heard that the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission was recruiting, I jumped at the opportunity to work on their National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program, as well as in biometric and forensic services. However, being assigned to different roles and rotations in the ACIC Graduate Program allowed me to develop a more holistic view of our agency and gain insights into how the work of each section can be aligned to achieve the organisational goals.

Upon completion of my studies, I had the goal of pursuing a career where I could make a significant difference in the community, while coming to work each day feeling proud. The 2024 ACIC Graduate Program allowed me to achieve this. The nature of work within an intelligence agency, while challenging at times, is extremely fulfilling. Knowing that our effort directly has an impact on transnational serious and organised crime is a rewarding feeling, and there’s nothing quite like it. Throughout the program, I was grateful for the opportunity to build working relationships and learn from experts in their respective fields, which was very inspiring and motivating.

The unique place the ACIC holds with its relationships to law enforcement and intelligence agencies means you will be working with a diverse and brilliant cohort that provide insights, support, and a breadth of experience in every possible way. As someone who learns best by doing, I really appreciated the opportunity to rotate between teams and engage with external partners. Commencing at a new workplace and city was made so much easier by being surrounded by other graduates with similar nerves and excitement.

When I applied to the graduate program, I was looking for something that was challenging and rewarding. The ACIC Graduate Program achieved this. The unique and dynamic world of criminal intelligence provided me with an opportunity to perform work in the national interest with tangible, real-world impacts. During my time, I have been fortunate enough to foster relationships with fellow graduates and receive invaluable mentoring and guidance from senior colleagues which will shape my career.

The ACIC has a unique role in protecting the Australian community as an intelligence agency. Prior to the graduate program, I never imagined I would be working on matters of national importance and contributing to the disruption of serious and organised crime in Australia. The ACIC has allowed me to prioritise personal development and maximise my exposure across multiple business areas. Importantly, my career is supported through the agency’s commitment to women in leadership and the development of future female leaders.

I’ve always been fascinated with how and why criminals circumvent the system to commit crimes, which has naturally led me to pursue a career related to law enforcement. I applied for a graduate position at the ACIC in particular because I want to be involved in an agency that makes a difference, offers unique and exciting career opportunities, and is dedicated to understanding and disrupting criminal activity that impacts the Australian community.