Our graduate needs

Every year ABARE recruits economics graduates. On a regular basis we also advertise for statistics and mathematics graduates to complement our research teams. We offer graduates an opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary environment with economists, statisticians and applied mathematicians who are actively involved in the formation and evaluation of public policy. ABARE also conducts large numbers of consultancy projects for governments and industry, giving graduates the experience of working in a client oriented business environment. We are looking for motivated graduates with a strong interest in economic policy and a background in economics, statistics and/or applied mathematics.

What we offer

Your contribution to ABARE’s research program starts in a ‘real’ job from day one. We make sure that your knowledge and skills are developed by assigning you to a team of highly experienced research economists, statisticians or applied mathematicians in one of ABARE’s many areas of research. At the same time we take steps to assist your professional development and progress through access to formal training in areas such as management, public speaking, information systems and writing. You will also be encouraged to attend seminars on research topics held throughout the year. Our emphasis is placed on developing individual capacity for management and leadership and maintaining technical and research expertise. If you wish to pursue further relevant academic studies, generous assistance is available under our Studybank program, including time off to attend classes and reimbursment of course fees on successful completion of each subject.

Employment conditions

You will receive an attractive starting salary. Our workplace agreement is currently being negotiated but commencing salary is expected to be around $52 000 per annum plus employer funded superannuation. Most ABARE graduates gain promotion to higher levels within their first 12 months with the organisation. Your comprehensive benefits package will include: flexible working conditions that assist you to balance your work and personal life generous personal and recreation leave provisions access to flexible remuneration packaging attractive superannuation provisions ongoing development and training opportunities flex time – a system that enables you, in consultation with your manager, to vary working hours, attendance patterns and working arrangements to best meet your work and personal commitments.

Job profile

ABARE graduate economists carry out applied economic research and/or commodity analysis on a diverse range of issues relating to agriculture, forestry, fisheries, energy and minerals trade and the environment, depending on the particular work area in which they are placed. This includes participation in the planning and delivery of economic research, commodity forecasting and preparation of briefings and research publications, and development of models. The work is undertaken under the guidance of experienced research staff.

Selection criteria

an understanding of the processes and techniques of applied economics, statistics or mathematics an understanding of economic issues facing the rural, minerals, resource or energy sectors an ability to communicate effectively the results of research and commodity analysis, both orally and in writing well developed interpersonal skills, including the ability to work productively in teams and to network effectively with both colleagues and clients high level of motivation and commitment to ABARE. To be eligible to apply you must satisfy the following requirements, in addition to addressing the selection criteria: YOU MUST be an Australian citizen or be in the process of becoming an Australian citizen (hold Australian Citizenship by the time you commence with ABARE) a degree in economics or associated discipline at honours level or higher is preferred. Serious consideration will also be given to candidates with double degrees (with strong economic content), as well as economics undergraduates possessing good academic records and a demonstrated interest in, or awareness of, issues surrounding Australia’s rural industries.

Selection arrangements

Your application will initially be screened by a selection committee, based on the relevance and strength of your tertiary qualifications and your claims against the selection criteria. We may also contact your referees at this point. You may then be selected for an interview where questions are asked to test your claims against the selection criteria. If you are from inter-state you may be interviewed by phone in the first instance. If successful, this will usually be followed up by a face-to-face interview at ABARE in Canberra. Any expenses involved will be met by ABARE. You will be advised as early as possible if you do not reach our shortlist. If you are successful you will receive an offer during July 2009 with a proposed commencement date in January 2010.

Past graduate research economists

Feel free to ring some our more recent graduate recruits to get the lowdown on their graduate experience with ABARE. Commodity forecasting Sally Fletcher | 02 6272 2215 Productivity, water and fisheries Adam Foster | 02 6272 2066 Agriculture Tom Jackson | 02 6272 2053 Climate change Catherine Tulloh | 02 6272 2114 Energy and minerals Michael Lampard | 02 6272 2152 Agricultural trade Chloe Haseltine | 02 6272 2060

Assistance with moving to Canberra

If you need to relocate to Canberra we will assist with arranging and paying for: the removal of your furniture and effects to Canberra your travel to Canberra by air or a vehicle allowance based on the number of kilometres travelled plus reasonable accommodation costs en route if you travel by car up to three weeks accommodation on your arrival in Canberra to help you settle in and look for long -term accommodation.

Our location

All ABARE staff are currently located in Canberra in our building on London Circuit, Canberra City. You will find that Canberra is a city of many faces; it’s not all power and politics. Whether you like action, entertainment or relaxation you’ll find lots to choose from either within Canberra or within easy driving distance. The Snowy Mountains, for instance, are a comfortable drive from Canberra and offer thrills for the ski enthusiast. Beautiful unspoilt surfing beaches on the South Coast are less than two hours away. The lakes in Canberra offer water enthusiasts many choices, including great conditions for sailing, kayaking, rowing or simply lazing around. Nightlife in Canberra is vibrant and varied. Pubs, clubs, nightclubs, cafes and live music venues abound. And when it comes to eating out, Canberra offers a truly international selection. Our many local wineries provide the opportunity to challenge your taste buds further. Shopaholics are not left out either. Shopping in Canberra can run the gamut from leading department stores and fashion boutiques to market bric-a-brac and craft works straight from the studio. Getting around Canberra is a breeze. The roads are excellent, linking the city with its four satellites, Belconnen, Woden, Tuggeranong and Gungahlin, in minutes. Forget the traffic jams and exhaust fumes and enjoy the sense of wide open spaces right in the centre of town. If you are more energetic or want to economise, you can get around on a bicycle. Canberra has more than 300 kilometres of bike paths, and pedal power is a great way of appreciating our sunshine. To see what Canberra can offer you, please visit these websites: canberraconnect.act.gov.au canberratourism.com.au canberra.citysearch.com.au snog.orac.net.au suburbs.canberra.net.au/html/fsregion.htm Accommodation in Canberra can be a little tight at the beginning of the year, when you start, but under our relocation assistance program you have three weeks free accommodation to help you look for longer term accommodation.