Industry placements

What are the benefits?

The benefits for students include:

• broadening your experience, developing professional networks with prospective hiring managers and gaining a competitive edge
• gaining practical experience in your chosen field
• providing an opportunity to work with experienced and knowledgeable staff
• creating an opportunity to increase your knowledge of the public sector and the work of the department.

What are the eligibility requirements?

1. You must be enrolled with an Australian tertiary education provider.
2. Your tertiary education provider must have appropriate Public Liability insurance.
3. You must be enrolled in a subject which requires you to undertake an industry placement.
4. You must be:
   • an Australian citizen or
   • reside in Australia and have permission or a right to be granted permission, under Commonwealth law, to remain in Australia indefinitely or
   • be a New Zealand citizen who is currently residing in Australia or
   • have a visa with work right status for the duration of the placement.

Overseas students who do not have Australian work rights, are welcome to seek volunteer opportunities as applicable.

If you are not a current university student but have graduated within the last 2–3 years, you may be eligible to apply for graduate programs or entry level graduate employment through the Queensland Government Graduate Portal. Further information on eligibility is available on the Graduate jobs | Employment and jobs | Queensland Government website.

What are the areas of discipline?

We offer projects across all divisions and a variety of disciplines, including:

• conservation management
• engineering
• environmental science and environmental management
• environmental tourism and sustainable tourism
• law, business, and policy development
• information technology and computer science
• science or applied science
• urban and regional planning and spatial science
• historical heritage conservation
• terrestrial and maritime archaeology
• wildlife management
• innovation
• human resource, media and communications
• tourism and innovation.

Where will placements be located?

This will depend on the specific placement projects on offer. The department has offices throughout Queensland including Cairns, Rockhampton and Longreach.

What can I expect during an industry placement?

Placements are aimed at providing practical work experience in a specific discipline. Projects are based on business and operational needs and will be different each year. During the placement, students will work on a specific placement project to achieve or contribute to, the project’s deliverables.

In some instances, you may be required to undertake some field work and travel and stay overnight in different locations (this may include staying in shared accommodation).

The department will provide training so you can complete their work safely.

What hours will I be required to work?

Placement days and hours will be determined following discussions between you and the project supervisor about work required by the department and the requirements of the university. Workdays will usually be 7.25 hours.

Do I need to provide any equipment?

When projects are advertised, they will list resources the department will provide, such as a workstation and computer, and personal protective equipment (PPE); they will also identify if you are required to supply your own pieces of equipment. Any expenses, such as providing own pieces of equipment or paying for travel or accommodation undertaken as part of the project, can be discussed, and negotiated during the application stage.

Do I get paid for an industry placement?

Industry placements are unpaid, however, in some circumstances (i.e. hard-to-fill disciplines and locations) we may offer a paid placement.

Do I need to have insurance?

Yes. Your tertiary education provider is required to have appropriate Public Liability insurance. You will also be covered under the department’s WorkCover insurance.

How do I register my interest in the program?

Complete the expression of interest registration form. Once registered, you will receive an email when placement projects become available.

How do I apply for a placement?

To apply for advertised projects, students will be required to provide:

1. a current resume.
2. a brief statement (maximum 1 page) demonstrating your interest in the placement and evidence that you have the necessary skills and experience.
3. a copy of your academic record.
4. a letter of endorsement from your tertiary institution, including verification of enrolment in an industry placement course, and public liability insurance.

Can I request workplace adjustments?

Yes, we’re dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace for all. We understand that we’re all unique, and we’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments and support to ensure equal opportunities for everyone.

Simply include your support requests in your application and the placement supervisor will connect with you to discuss further.

What should I expect after applying?

Once an application is received, it will be sent to the department’s project supervisor for consideration. An informal interview, such as a phone conversation or face-to-face chat, may be undertaken. Applicants will be advised by the project supervisor whether they have been successful.

Please note that we may not be able offer a placement for each student who applies.

Where do I go for further information?

Email CareerPathways@detsi.qld.gov.au.

Industry placement success stories

• Tanara Hinschen – Bachelor of Animal Ecology
  Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Value Based Management Framework.