Inside the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT): Your 60-Second Guide to a Government Career 🚀
Ever wondered what it's really like to work at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)?
We’ve done the homework and dissected their annual report, so you don’t have to! In this quickfire overview, you’ll discover everything you need to know about DFAT—from its global networks and finances to the academic pathways and practical skills they seek in new recruits. Whether you’re a seasoned public servant looking for a promotion or a fresh school-leaver seeking an exciting career, this guide will equip you with a clear view of life at DFAT.
AT-A-GLANCE:
Name of Department: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
Location: Australia-wide (including over 100 embassies, consulates, and high commissions overseas)
CEO (Secretary): Jan Adams AO PSM
Total Revenue: Approximately AUD 9.1 billion (2023–24)
(Note: Drawn from DFAT’s annual report and budget statements, this figure reflects DFAT’s combined administered and departmental resources, including official development assistance, property management, and passport revenue.)
Total Number of Employees: Approximately 6,400
THE QUALIFICATION, CERTIFICATIONS, TRADES, PROFESSIONS, WORK EXPERIENCES & SKILLS MOST SUITED TO
Top 5 Academic Qualifications Most Suited:
International Relations – Builds deep understanding of global dynamics and diplomatic frameworks.
Law – Essential for treaty negotiations, international legal advice, and compliance.
Business/Commerce – Ideal for trade negotiations, financial oversight, and program delivery.
Public Policy/Administration – Equips you to shape, implement, and review government policies.
Information Technology/Cybersecurity – Protects DFAT’s highly sensitive data and global ICT systems.
Top 5 Certifications Most Suited:
Project Management (e.g., PRINCE2, PMBOK) – Ensures large-scale international programs run on time and on budget.
Financial Management (e.g., CPA, CIMA) – Maintains transparent and efficient use of government funds.
Language Proficiency Certifications – Strengthens engagement with overseas counterparts.
Government Procurement and Contracting – Supports efficient and compliant government spending.
Security Certifications (e.g., CISSP) – Guards mission-critical networks and communications.
Top 5 Trades/Professions Most Suited:
Administration Officers & Executive Assistants – Provide vital logistical support across embassies and missions.
IT Professionals/Technicians – Maintain DFAT’s worldwide digital and communication infrastructure.
Technical Security Specialists – Ensure Australian Government sites meet high security standards.
Property Maintenance – Oversee the upkeep of DFAT’s large, global property portfolio.
Protocol & Event Management – Coordinate official events, dignitary visits, and diplomatic functions.
Top 5 Skills Most Suited:
Cultural Awareness & Sensitivity – Fosters trust and cooperation in global contexts.
Negotiation & Influencing – Shapes beneficial outcomes in diplomatic and trade arenas.
Analytical & Research Skills – Informs data-driven decision-making, including foreign policy positions.
Communication & Stakeholder Engagement – Clearly conveys complex issues to both local and international audiences.
Adaptability & Resilience – Essential for handling diverse and unpredictable challenges overseas.
Top 5 Work Experiences Most Suited:
Policy Development – Demonstrates your ability to design impactful government initiatives.
Project/Program Management – Shows you can deliver strategic outcomes under pressure.
International Exposure – Broadens perspectives and cultivates cross-cultural confidence.
Customer/Client Service – Prepares you to support Australian citizens in consular roles.
Security or Risk Management – Valuable in safeguarding people, information, and property worldwide.
THE KEY FACTS
Name of Department: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
Name of CEO (Secretary): Jan Adams AO PSM
Location: Australia-wide and globally (over 100 overseas posts)
Year Founded: 1901 (initially formed under the Commonwealth’s external affairs responsibilities)
Main Mission and Purpose:
Advance Australia’s strategic, security, and economic interests
Deliver timely and responsive consular and passport services
Strengthen regional and global prosperity
Real-World Example: DFAT’s trade negotiations have helped Australian businesses access new markets, while emergency assistance supports Australians abroad during crises.
Main Duties of the Department:
Diplomatic Relations – Builds and manages Australia’s relationships with foreign governments.
Trade Policy and Negotiations – Leads free trade deals and defends Australian commercial interests.
International Development – Manages around AUD 4.8 billion in assistance programs focusing on the Indo-Pacific.
Consular and Passport Services – Delivers essential support, especially during overseas emergencies.
Real-World Example: DFAT coordinates evacuations during natural disasters or conflicts—offering immediate relief to affected Australians.
Key Projects, Key Strategic Priorities, Future Plans and Initiatives:
Deepening Indo-Pacific Partnerships – Through enhanced bilateral and regional programs.
Upgrading Overseas Property & IT Systems – Ensures safety and modernises global operations.
Expanding Humanitarian and Climate Initiatives – Provides crisis relief and environmental resilience projects.
Strengthening Multilateral Engagement – Upholds international law, security, and trade norms.
Did you know?
DFAT operates in 116 posts worldwide, serving as one of Australia’s most extensive global networks 🌏
THE EMPLOYEES & REVENUE
Total Number of Employees: ~6,400
Total Number of Employees at Each Pay Level (approx. breakdown):
APS 1–6: ~55%
Executive Level (EL) 1–2: ~30%
Senior Executive Service (SES) 1–3: ~15%
Salary Bands:
APS 1 Roles: ~AUD 50,000–60,000
APS 6 & EL Roles: ~AUD 80,000–130,000
SES Band Roles: >AUD 200,000
Average Salary in the Department: ~AUD 100,000–120,000
Total Revenue: ~AUD 9.1 billion (2023–24)
Average Revenue per Employee: ~AUD 1.4 million
GETTING A JOB AT DFAT
When searching for roles, you’ll often see job titles such as “Policy Officer,” “Trade Analyst,” “Security Advisor,” or “Consular Officer.” Tailor your resume and responses to selection criteria by emphasizing relevant academic backgrounds and practical experience.
Which academic subjects are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Certificate / Diploma Level:
Business Administration – Builds administrative and project coordination capabilities.
Information Technology Support – Helps maintain vital ICT services in overseas missions.
Security Operations – Enhances protective security and risk management skills.
Bachelor / Master Level:
International Relations / Political Science – Forms the backbone of policy, negotiation, and diplomatic roles.
Public Policy / Economics – Underpins research, data-driven decision-making, and policy formulation.
Computer Science / Cybersecurity – Protects crucial data and communication networks across the globe.
PhDs:
Area Studies / Regional Studies – Provides in-depth regional insights critical for strategic policy.
Legal or Policy Research – Drives robust legislative frameworks and advanced policy analysis.
Which trades and professions are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Building Trades (Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing): Maintain DFAT’s diverse estate of embassies and high commissions.
Security and Protective Services: Safeguard personnel, documents, and facilities in often high-risk locations.
Events and Protocol Management: Orchestrate official visits, forums, and international conferences.
Which work experiences are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Policy or Legislative Experience: Proves your capacity for strategic thinking and governmental awareness.
Project Management: Showcases your ability to coordinate complex initiatives that involve multiple stakeholders.
Customer or Community Service: Informs the empathetic delivery of consular support for Australians abroad.
Military or Law Enforcement Background: Highly transferrable in risk assessment and operational planning.
Communications / Media Relations: Amplifies the impact of Australia’s public diplomacy and consular advice.
Which skills are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Soft Skills:
🤔 Cross-Cultural Communication – Smooths international collaboration.
💡 Teamwork & Collaboration – Allows for unified progress within multi-agency work.
Emotional Intelligence – Navigates sensitive diplomatic or consular situations.
Technical Skills:
📊 Data Analysis & Reporting – Fuels evidence-based policy decisions.
Cybersecurity – Protects classified information and digital assets.
Technical Project Delivery – Ensures missions remain fully functional and secure.
General Skills:
🎯 Time Management – Balances competing deadlines across different time zones.
Adaptability – Thrives amid fast-changing international climates.
Language Proficiency – Bridges communication gaps with global partners.
Which hobbies and interests align with the work of this department?
Travel & Cultural Exchange: Cultivates genuine international perspectives.
Debating / Public Speaking: Refines persuasive and negotiation skills.
Volunteering / Community Service: Shows social responsibility and empathy.
Creative Writing or Blogging: Enhances storytelling and clear communication.
Want more information on this department?
Contact the department:
Address: R G Casey Building, John McEwen Crescent, Barton, ACT 0221, Australia
Telephone: +61 2 6261 1111
Email: dfat.gov.au/contact
Website: dfat.gov.au
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