Frequently asked questions

I am an international student. Can I still apply?

You must be an Australian Permanent Resident or Australian Citizen by December 2026 to be eligible for the 2027 intake.

What do you look for in a Graduate?

We are looking for people with a genuine interest in working for the WA health system. 

We are also looking for people with problem solving and research skills, good written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work both autonomously and in a collaborative team environment.

Are you looking for people with specific degrees?

No. We look at your transferable skills and genuine interest in working for the WA health system.

WA Health recruits a mixture of talented graduates from a broad range of disciplines. Previous graduates’ degrees include Health Science, Science, Arts, Commerce, Communications, Social Work, Psychology, Law, Finance, IT and Economics.

How many positions are available?

Each cohort is usually made up of 17 – 20 Graduates.

When does the Graduate Program commence?

The program commences every year during the last week of January.

What if I am graduating part way through the Graduate Program?

Applicants must have graduated in 2025 or be graduating in 2026.

Applicants graduating part way through the Graduate program in 2027 are encouraged to apply for the 2028 program.

What if I graduated before 2023?

Only applicants who completed their degree in 2024 or are graduating in 2025 can apply for the 2026 intake.

Will I be required to conduct a Criminal Records Screening?

Yes. Candidates who are offered positions for the GDP will be required to undergo a Criminal Records Screening (external site). Previous criminal conviction or pending charges will not necessarily preclude employment.

When will you be making offers to the successful applicants?

Offers to successful applicants will be made approximately four weeks after the interview process concludes. 

How long has the Graduate Program been running?

The Health GDP has been running since 2004. 

What kind of placements can I expect?

Previous graduates have worked in areas including human resources, workforce planning, finance, policy development, First Nations health, health promotion, health reform, mental health, corporate shared services, epidemiology, public affairs, organisational development, social work, performance and reporting, allied health and safety and quality.

For more information about the types of projects you might undertake, have a read of our Graduate Focus 2019 edition (PDF 3MB), Graduate Focus 2020 edition (PDF 7MB), Graduate Focus 2021 edition (PDF KB), Graduate Focus 2022 edition (PDF 11MB) and Graduate Focus 2023 edition (PDF 5MB).

What happens at the end of the Graduate Program?

Graduates may be offered a fixed-term contract or permanent position subject to positions being available.