Government and public service Jobs Australia
At Hays, we understand that the public sector’s hiring needs – and your career progression goals – are unique.
We have dedicated public sector recruiting experts in each of our specialist divisions and offices who place candidates into temporary, contract and permanent roles.
As an approved supplier of key local, state and federal government agreements, we have access to the latest public sector jobs available. Apply now or get in touch for more information.
Public sector positions
A career in the public sector offers stability, career progression, and the opportunity to make a real impact. Whether you're looking for federal government jobs in Australia, state government roles or opportunities in local government, Hays connects you with employers seeking skilled professionals across a wide range of sectors.
Local government
Local governments across Australia provide essential services to communities, from infrastructure and urban planning to environmental management and social programs. If you're searching for local government jobs, we can help you find roles in administration, engineering, project management and more.
Federal government
Hays is an authorised recruiter of federal government jobs, connecting skilled professionals with opportunities across Australian Public Service (APS) and executive level (EL) roles. Whether you're looking to advance your career in policy, administration, IT, finance, or infrastructure, we can help you navigate the process and secure the right opportunity.
We recruit for a wide range of federal government jobs in Australia, including:
- Entry-level: Ideal for graduates or professionals transitioning into the public sector, APS roles provide structured career pathways with training and development opportunities.
- Executive search: We specialise in sourcing top talent for senior APS and EL positions, identifying leaders who can drive strategic initiatives and transformation.
- Labour hire: We support government agencies with skilled professionals for short-term and project-based work, ensuring flexibility in meeting workforce demands.
- Permanent positions: Secure a long-term career in the public sector with ongoing federal government roles that offer stability, career progression and benefits.
- Temporary and contract roles: Gain valuable experience through fixed-term government contracts, offering flexibility while working on key projects.
Our expertise in APS means we understand security clearance requirements, merit-based selection, and key hiring processes.
State government
State governments oversee key sectors such as health, education, transport and emergency services. With a wide range of state government jobs available, Hays can connect you with opportunities in project management, public administration, legal and compliance, and more.
How can we help you?
Trusted partner
With years of experience and a strong reputation in the industry, we’re known for delivering reliable recruitment solutions. Our expertise and commitment have made us a go-to agency for sourcing top talent.
As a trusted partner to the public sector, we’re committed to supplying a diverse shortlist for each vacancy. We are an equal opportunities employer dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion. We actively encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply for jobs across all industries.
Career guidance
Beyond understanding your skills and experience, we take the time to explore your aspirations and motivations. Building this insight assists us in identifying the role that will help you achieve your full potential.
We’ll guide you through our recruitment process by providing you with:
- CV and cover letter writing tips
- Career progression advice
- Interview guidance
- Access to online timesheets
- Upskilling opportunities through our online training system Pulse
Lasting partnerships
We're committed to prioritising ethics and fairness. This underpins everything we do and proves why public sector candidates and organisations partner with us long-term. This belief unites us and ensures we place the right person in the right role, every time.
We pride ourselves on building strong relationships with various clients including:
- Not-for-profit and charitable organisations
- Publicly funded healthcare providers and utilities
- Education sector organisations
Find government and public sector jobs
Whether you're looking to pursue a career with the federal government, or state government in NSW, WA, Qld, SA, Tas, NT or ACT – our recruiters will help you find the perfect opportunity in your preferred location.
We frequently have roles available across various divisions within the public sector, including:
- Medical and nursing
- Marketing, media and communications
- Hospitality and tourism
Explore state and federal government jobs within departments including:
- Treasury and Finance Department
- Education Department
- Industry and Regions Department
- Children and Young People Department
- Department of Health
Begin your job search or contact your local Hays office for more information on how we can help.
What else can you do to aid your job search?
- Download our job search planner to plan a winning job search strategy
- Expand your knowledge with our Hays Salary Guide
- Keep up to date by following us on LinkedIn
- Register for job alerts so you never miss an opportunity
- Update your CV, if you haven’t done so already
- Can’t find the right job? Register your CV so we have your details
While you wait for us to connect you with the right job, brush up on your interview skills.
Key selection criteria
A key requirement for jobs in Government is to respond to the Key Selection Criteria (KSC).
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