NSW Government Reviews

At the end of the graduate program there is a guaranteed job, however there is also the possibility of a promotion if you exceed expectations. To move up the ranks you have to apply for internal roles and be assessed alongside everyone else. Promotions are not presented to individuals, they are presented company-wide.

CSR is inherent in the work the NSW Government does, given that our entire purpose is to enable positive outcomes for the people of NSW.

Relaxed and rather informal within the team, especially outside of work-related matters. Much of the NSW public service operates under a flexible working arrangement, with most areas and teams offering work from home and flexible working hours. Communication between team members and management is fluid, though there is a definite hierarchy to follow depending on the nature of your request. The team I work in exercises excellent communication and interoperability, with all members working collaboratively with one another on projects and assisting where they can. On a personal level, all of members of the team are highly approachable and supportive both personally and professionally.

Diversity is a huge priority in the NSW government. It is expected that everyone treats all others with respect, regardless of any differences. There are proactive programs to ensure this is embodied, rather than just lip service. There are groups for LGBTIQA+ staff, staff with a disability, those from different cultural backgrounds and more. This commitment to diversity manifests itself in every aspect of the workplace, including the recruitment process.

My day is full but I am not overworked. I complete a variety of tasks, some creative, some more planning, some strategic.

Managers very good at interacting and providing support. I have weekly 1-1 meeting with my manager, but also talk to them nearly every day. There is a formal assessment process though your performance and development plan. There is a formal mentoring program within the Graduate program, so you have a mentor outside of your team, and you get an executive sponsor (someone at executive level which you get to meet up with throughout the program and learn from).

Hot desks and booking for desks. The facilities are modern and spacious with room to work individuals and together in groups. The dress code for me various from team to team, but business casual is the expected standard. Business formal on any events that involve engagement with the community. If in doubt, overdress if you think casual is okay on your first day it is fine to wear a suit and tie. Ask your manager.

The recruitment process has four components - Initial questions (getting details), including 2 questions that examined fit to company (and had a tight word limit) - Cognitive assessment - Individual practical assessment (examining how well you individually create some deliverables) - Interview and group practical assessment (examining how well you can work in a group to create some deliverables)

Pay is per award rate at your level which is fair. Do not get bonuses as far as I am aware.

Lots of personal development training, they do exclusive sessions for the graduates; things like having difficult conversations or resilience etc. Also plenty of training available if you have spare time.

You work 7 hours a day (with a minimum half hour lunch break). The hours are flexible, and it is a conversation to be had with your manager. Any time that you work over the 7 hours a day accrues as flex leave (which you can take like regular leave).

Great recycling, however large use of paper still.