Pathways to future careers
From classrooms to Canberra: First Nations students gain skills, connections and insights into government careers through work experience program.
More than 50 First Nations secondary school students from across Australia travelled to Canberra from 13 to 18 September for the Australian Government’s Work Experience in Government (WEX) program.
Throughout the week, students gained firsthand insight into careers in the Australian Public Service (APS) and developed a deeper understanding of how government works. They visited workplaces, met APS employees, explored national institutions and built valuable professional connections.
A highlight of the program was a visit to Parliament House, where students had the opportunity to meet parliamentarians, ask questions and hear firsthand about a range of career pathways and leadership journeys.
The program supported students to build confidence, strengthen leadership skills and explore future education and employment opportunities. Along the way, they formed new friendships, expanded their networks and gained experiences they can share with their schools, families and communities.
WEX contributes to the Australian Government’s commitment to Closing the Gap by helping young First Nations people develop the skills, experience and connections that can support their future career aspirations and economic participation.
For many participants, the visit was their first opportunity to experience government up close and see the breadth of careers available across the APS.
The relationships they built, the stories they heard and the opportunities they explored provided valuable insights into the pathways available to them, while reinforcing the important role young First Nations people can play in shaping their own futures and those of their communities.