Danny Yazdani

Program Officer - Program, Policy and Delivery
Bachelor of Arts, majoring in English Literature and Sociology.

What's your job about?

I'm currently in my third and final rotation as a Program Officer in the Program Policy and Delivery team within the Culture and Empowerment Branch. Our team supports the annual NAIDOC Grants process, IAS 1.4 Culture and Capability, and broader work relating to First Nations cultures. Day to day, I contribute to policy development, program design, grant assessment, and continuous improvement activities that strengthen how the Agency delivers cultural capability outcomes.

In this rotation, I help coordinate program cycles, analyse policy settings, and support the delivery of key grant processes that empower First Nations communities. I also work closely with colleagues across the Branch to translate program policy into practical implementation steps.

Before this, my first rotation was as a Project Officer in the Integrity Group’s Provider Performance Project, where I helped develop tools and insights to strengthen provider integrity and performance monitoring. My second rotation was as a Policy Officer in the Home Ownership and Accommodation Policy team in the Housing and Infrastructure Branch. There, I supported policy work aimed at improving access to safe and secure housing for First Nations peoples.

A highlight of my current rotation has been contributing to planning for the upcoming NAIDOC Grants process in 2026. It has allowed me to see how national cultural initiatives are supported from the ground up and how government program settings translate into real community impact.

What's your background?

I graduated from the University of Sydney with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in English Literature and Sociology. I’ve always been fascinated by how societies understand themselves — especially when overlooked narratives challenge what we accept as “true.” After graduating, I took a six‑month break before applying for the NIAA 2025 Graduate Program, which led me to move from Sydney (Dharug land) to Canberra in February 2025.

Although Canberra was a big step outside my comfort zone, I’ve loved the calm pace and the chance to build a new routine and community. The NIAA has opened my eyes to parts of government work I had never previously considered. Working in Indigenous Affairs has strengthened my interest in developing policy and programs that protect and promote cultural heritage.

I applied for the Graduate Program because of my strong belief in First Nations self‑determination and the importance of working with grassroots community to drive meaningful change. The Agency’s purpose aligns closely with my personal belief that reconciliation is a responsibility shared by all Australians and I feel fortunate to contribute to this professionally.

Outside of work, I’m an avid gardener, currently making the most of my small Canberra balcony. I’m also a dedicated bookworm, and the PM&C Library has become one of my favourite resources to keep my reading habits alive.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Absolutely. My role is far less about having a specific degree and far more about bringing the right skills and mindset. Program and policy work at the NIAA suits people from many disciplines - arts, law, science, business, social sciences, and more. What really matters is strong communication, analytical thinking, cultural capability, and the ability to work respectfully with others. Curiosity, humility, and a willingness to learn go a long way. If you enjoy understanding how government programs work and want to contribute to outcomes for First Nations communities, your background can fit here.

What's the coolest thing about your job?

The coolest part of my job is seeing how the work we do directly supports First Nations communities. Being involved in processes like the NAIDOC Grants lets me watch cultural celebration and community impact grow from behind the scenes. As a graduate, I love the variety - moving across different branches means I’m constantly learning new parts of government and stepping into spaces I never imagined working in. Also, my current team are an incredible bunch of talented people- they have all taken me under their wings and supported my growth (shoutout to my EL1!).

What are the limitations of your job?

Like any role in government, there are challenges. The learning curve can be steep, especially when navigating unfamiliar policies, processes, and acronyms. Some tasks require patience and close attention to detail, which may not suit people who prefer fast-paced decision-making. Timelines can shift quickly, and priorities sometimes change without much notice. Because the work is meaningful, it can also feel high‑stakes at times. But these challenges are manageable with good support, and they’re part of what makes the job rewarding. No two days are the same.

3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student?

Say yes to more opportunities. Even the ones that feel intimidating will teach you something valuable.
Don’t rush to have everything figured out. Your career direction will come with time, experience, and reflection. Plus, the public service is all about mobility.
A rotation in a team/branch/group is only a drop in the ocean of your career. You’ll be working most of your life and if you don’t like a rotation, it won’t be consequential in the grand scheme of things.

Shannyn Stanley

Assistant Director - Justice Policy and Partnerships.
Bachelor of Social Science (Criminal Justice), Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts (Political Science and Psychology).

What's your job about?

I am an Assistant Director in the Justice Policy and Partnerships team which sits in the Families and Safety Branch.

I lead in shaping and influencing policy and deliver programs that divert First Nations people away from the criminal justice system or improve post-release outcomes (Targets 10 and 11 of the National Agreement of Closing the Gap).

The team has oversight of the following programs:

Community Safety Patrols
Through-Care
Youth Support and Diversion
Crime Prevention

My role includes:

developing staff capabilities
overseeing the Community Safety Patrols

working with other departments to address the cross-cutting impacts of contract with the

justice system and influence a coordinated nation effort to make progress against Targets 10 and 11 and to reduce deaths in custody
support other partners such as peak bodies to deliver strategic projects.

My journey from joining the team as a graduate to now as an Assistant Director has been full of great opportunities and I have genuinely been supported to develop my skills and capabilities and remain true to my culture.

What's your background?

I am Wiradjuri woman from Dubbo, New South Wales. I was raised by non-Indigenous single mother who taught me independence, strength, resilience and most importantly to be proud of my culture.

I studied for over 10 years at university and have 3 degrees – Bachelor of Social Science (Criminal Justice), Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts (Political Science and Psychology). I strongly believe knowledge is power for mob.

I joined the NIAA first and foremost because the agency seeks to empower the aspirations of First Nations people. For me, my work needs to be motivating and not just something that pays the bills. Secondly, the friendly and relaxed culture of the agency. Immediately I could see other First Nations people which made me feel welcomed and safe. Thirdly, the opportunities in relation to the breadth of work and where I could work. The where was important because I grew up in the bush and feel connected to places where there are more trees than buildings.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Yes – 100%. My team currently has 10 people, all with different degrees, career paths and cultures. Justice outcomes are very much impacted by other

sectors such as health, education, housing etc, which means we need to work with people with expertise in those areas in order to address those cross-cutting issues.

It is also important to have people with on the ground experience and knowledge. Our Indigenous Engagement Officers are particularly important in enabling positive relationships between their communities and Government, sharing cultural protocols, and knowing how programs and policies will impact their communities.

What's the coolest thing about your job?

I love that I get to help my people and my community. My work needs to be motivating and not just a means to pay my bills. So every day, no matter the task, I remind myself this one step will lead to a difference.

I also appreciate that I joined the public service at a really pivotal time where coordinated effort is a big focus. By that I mean, we are really encouraged to create connections with other government departments, peak bodies, state and territory departments and people on the ground. By doing this, I get to see even more mob and really see the steps being taken to empower our people.

What are the limitations of your job?

Justice issues have been around for a really long time so if you want to see big change in a short time, working for the Government is not for you.

On the other side, if you are person that needs to see things through to the end, you may struggle. Our work depends on the Government of the Day and this could obviously change every election. This means one Government could ask you to develop or work on one thing and then another Government comes in and says stop that work.

3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student?

- Say yes to most opportunities. I got to where I am today because I said yes to things that I wasn’t necessarily interested in but did it anyway to learn new skills, create new relationships and show people what I can do.
- Value yourself. If you don’t value yourself, people aren’t going to value you which means you will struggle to influence the environment around you.

Find an ally, mentor or coach in any environment you step in. We are resilient people, but we don’t have to be strong all the time and do things by ourselves. If you can find someone that knows the environment, ask them for help to make your journey easier.

Jamie Pan

ICT Strategy and Shared Services
Computing and Data Science

What's your job about?

I’m currently rotating through the ICT Strategy and Shared Services team within the ICT, Data and Systems Branch. The team is responsible for setting the agency’s overall information and communications technology direction and managing the shared services relationship with the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. A key focus of the team’s work is supporting the agency’s ICT transition and uplift. On a day‑to‑day basis, the team develops ICT strategies, policies, governance arrangements, procurement activities, and provides advice to support effective and reliable digital services across the agency.

As a graduate, I contribute by supporting information management policy work and researching emerging topics such as AI strategies and capabilities relevant to government. This includes researching best practices, preparing briefs, assisting with policy development, and supporting internal discussions that inform decision‑making. A highlight of this rotation was leading an internal access governance improvement paper from start to finish. I coordinated stakeholder input, developed the paper, and presented it to a working group and committee for discussion and noting. This experience helped me build confidence, strengthen my stakeholder engagement skills, and gain a better understanding of how strategic ICT and information management work contributes to meaningful organisational outcomes.

what's your background?

I grew up in a small town called Katanning in the Great Southern region of Western Australia. Growing up in a regional community shaped my values from an early age, including respect to land, an appreciation of cultural diversity, and learning alongside First Nations people in the community.

I moved to Perth during high school and later studied at the University of Western Australia, where I completed a degree in Computing and Data Science.

What motivated me to apply for the NIAA Graduate Program was the Agency’s values and its commitment to working in partnership with First Nations peoples to achieve meaningful and lasting outcomes, which strongly resonated with my upbringing and personal values, as well as my desire to combine my technical background with purposeful work that contributes to community outcomes.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Someone from a different background could definitely do my job if they are willing to learn and committed to doing good, meaningful work. While formal qualifications can be helpful, transferable skills such as communication, cultural capability, and problem solving are far more important in practice. Much of the work involves writing clearly, working collaboratively, and thinking critically rather than applying highly technical skills. To succeed in this role, it helps to be curious, willing to research unfamiliar topics, adaptable to change, and resilient when receiving feedback.

What's the coolest thing about your job?

The coolest thing about my job is the people and the connections you get to build. I’m surrounded by a genuinely supportive team who want you to succeed and are always willing to help when you need it, which really makes NIAA feel like a great place to work. There’re also opportunities to attend First Nations‑related forums, learning sessions, trainings and footprint activities which deepens cultural understanding and make the work more meaningful.

What are the limitations of your job?

One limitation of the role is that progress can sometimes feel slow, particularly due to approval processes, clearance requirements, and competing priorities. The work also requires a level of diplomacy and careful communication, which may be challenging for people who prefer very direct or fast‑paced environments.

3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student?

I would tell myself: “Hey you there, be braver and put your hand up for more opportunities. Say yes more often, but make sure you are prepared and willing to put in the effort once you do. Step outside your comfort zone, stop making excuses, and take the time to build genuine connections, as they will be valuable in ways you may not expect. And remember, it’s okay when things don’t turn out as planned. Every experience is a chance to learn, grow, and move forward with gratitude rather than regret.”

Marina du Toit

Generalist
Bachelor of Biomedical Science, Double Major in Anatomy and Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing

What do you enjoy most about being part of the graduate program?

The support to try new things and the guidance from staff that have a long and fruitful career in the APS. As a migrant to Australia, its also been super interesting learning more about government and how important and influential our work is day-to-day.

What has been the most rewarding or meaningful part of your graduate program experience so far?

Working on the Low‑Cost Essentials Subsidy Scheme has been especially meaningful. Being part of a program that directly supports remote communities - improving health outcomes and easing cost‑of‑living pressures - has been incredibly rewarding, particularly when engaging with stores that genuinely want to make a positive difference.

What advice would you give to students or graduates who are considering applying for the graduate program?

Go for it! I never imagined I’d work for the Australian Government, especially as an immigrant living in Perth. But the opportunities available are far broader than I expected. The program has opened doors I didn’t even know existed, and it’s set me up for a long and fulfilling career in the APS - especially in Indigenous affairs, where I feel like I learn something new every single day.

How has the graduate program helped you grow professionally or personally?

The program has deepened my understanding of the diversity, strength, and knowledge within First Nations communities across Australia. While I had previously volunteered in WA communities, I’d never had the opportunity to learn so much about other states and territories. My thinking in Indigenous affairs has been continually challenged, expanded, and enriched. I feel humbled and energised by the knowledge I’m exposed to daily.

Can you share a highlight or moment that made you feel proud to be part of the program?

A standout moment was contributing to the Priority Reforms Roadmap during my second rotation - an initiative focused on transforming how government works to realise the aspirations of the National Agreement. Seeing this work endorsed by senior APS leaders and the Coalition of Peaks was incredibly validating. I felt genuinely privileged to make such a meaningful contribution, even as a graduate.

What kind of work have you been involved in, and how has it contributed to real outcomes?

During my second rotation, I worked on the Priority Reforms Roadmap, contributing to whole‑of‑government changes that support better outcomes for First Nations peoples.

In my current role in food security, I’m supporting remote community stores to access subsidised essential items. This has delivered real cost‑of‑living relief and helped promote healthier eating, creating tangible benefits for families and communities.

What support have you received from managers, mentors, or colleagues during the program?

Every person I’ve worked with - managers, mentors, colleagues, and even other graduates - has genuinely supported my development and encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. I’ve always felt that people are invested in my success, which has helped me build confidence and grow my skills.

What attracted you to apply for this graduate program in the first place?

I was drawn to the agency’s vision and mission, they deeply align with my own values. It’s a privilege to do this work and engage with the communities we partner with. From the beginning, I felt this would be both personally and professionally enriching, and I’ve already learned so much from incredible leaders across the agency.

How has the graduate program shaped your career goals or future direction?

The program has shown me just how broad and impactful a career in the APS can be. I now genuinely look forward to a long career in the public service, with endless opportunities to grow, try new things, and contribute in meaningful ways.

What type of work could I undertake as a NIAA graduate?

The opportunities are incredibly diverse. You can work across policy development, community engagement, strategic projects, program delivery, or even whole‑of‑government initiatives. After my three rotations, I still feel like there’s so much more to explore within the agency, and so many knowledgeable people to learn from.

Tamika

Graduate Advisor

I love being able to rotate through the agency to get a clearer idea of how the overall agency operates. It has also helped me try out jobs to see if they are a good fit for me or not. It is very cool to be in Canberra too, it feels like I am in the heart of the nation’s politics and press, and that can feel exciting.

What's your job about?

I’m a graduate policy advisor at the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).

The NIAA is responsible for leading and coordinating policy, program design and implementation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, with a focus on ensuring First Nations peoples have a say in decisions that affect them.

As part of the graduate program, I’ve been able to rotate into three different teams across the agency. My first placement was for 5 months, and my second and third are for 3 and a half months. So far, I’ve worked in Constitution Recognition Communications, CDP Policy and I’m about to head into NT Land Operations. It’s been an excellent opportunity to learn more about what the agency does, to develop skills, and to explore my development goals.

In Constitutional Recognition Communications, I experienced working on planning social media posts, drafting briefs and speeches for the Minister, writing updates for internal and external web pages and drafting material for the Voice Newsletter once a month.

In CDP Policy, I learned about grant and novation processes, was able to do some procurement and event planning, and got to learn about remote employment programs.

I’m not sure what I’ll learn in my next rotation, but I’m sure it will be really different from what I have learned so far. I’ll be travelling to Darwin to join the team in the Regional Office there and am really looking forward to challenging myself and stepping out of my comfort zone.

What's your background?

I grew up in an outer northern suburb of Adelaide on Kaurna land. Neither of my parents finished high school, though my dad did return to complete his high school education later as an adult and went on to complete an engineering degree at university.

I studied Journalism and International at the University of South Australia, but when I graduated I wasn’t really sure how to make a start. I tried to apply for a few journalism jobs, but I didn’t have a lot of confidence. I ended up heading out to the APY Lands and East Arnhem Land to get some work experience, working in schools and local councils, which was quite different from what I studied.

Working in remote Aboriginal communities, I felt really passionate about the politics that impacted people in the day to day. This drew me towards working in an Australian policy setting, and in particular, in working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. I realised I didn’t want to work as a journalist, but came to appreciate that I had a communications degree all the same. The kind of work a journalist does didn’t come naturally to me, but I still wanted to write, think critically, and apply research in my work. This led me to apply for the graduate program at the NIAA, and I was lucky enough to be offered a place in the 2023 program. I’ve become really interested in place-based approaches to doing policy work, and the NIAA feels like the best place to be able to do this type of work.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Yes, though I think it is important to have a strong commitment to continuing to learn and to growing your cultural competency in order to be able to do work in diverse settings across Australia. One of the things I have noticed about the agency is that the people who work here are committed to the agency’s purpose and they care about the work they do.

One of the reasons I think I got this opportunity is because of the values of the agency, how this is reflected in the recruitment process, and how my values align with the agency’s. The first agency value that resonates with me is about respecting multiple perspectives, and the second is about being authentic. Throughout the interview process, and in my time here in the job, I’ve felt that my colleagues and leaders have not only been respectful of multiple perspectives, but have sought different perspectives to inform the work they do. Being authentic is an important part of this – in order to understand others better, to build relationships and to do work that hopefully lasts well into the future.

What's the coolest thing about your job?

I love being able to rotate through the agency to get a clearer idea of how the overall agency operates. It has also helped me try out jobs to see if they are a good fit for me or not. It is very cool to be in Canberra too, it feels like I am in the heart of the nation’s politics and press, and that can feel exciting.

But the other thing I am still getting used to, is just how much interesting work is within reach, and how many opportunities there are to grow, learn and pursue a career. In my first five months here, I was able to do comms work I have never performed before, and contribute meaningfully to my team. The wonderful thing about a grad program is that there is so much focus on the development of new graduates. There are so many opportunities and people to learn from.

I was recently able to arrange job shadowing for a day with a team outside of my current rotation. I learned so much and gained exposure to yet another part of the agency. This ability to learn wouldn’t be as easy outside of a graduate program, it gives me such a great opportunity to understand the type of work I want to do going forward.

What are the limitations of your job?

One limitation of the grad program can be the constant state of flux and change. Just as you think you have got the hang of things, you move to your next rotation! It can be hard to continually have to establish your competency and ability to contribute to a team each time you move. But dealing with a bit of uncertainty and a lot of change has been worth it. I’ve grown a large network in just my first year here, and have had so many opportunities I wouldn’t otherwise have had.

3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...

Firstly, have more confidence and fret a lot less about the future. You have all the time in the world to figure it out! You will find a path. Keep the momentum going.
Secondly, do what comes naturally. Doing this will lead you into work and communities of people with the same values as you, and from there things will just keep getting better.
Thirdly, be real about what your needs are and stop trying to be who you think you should be or how you think you should be. Find a way to do new and scary things in a way that feels authentic to you. What is it you need? What is it you want? Listen to what your body tells you. Take yourself seriously, take your health and sleep seriously, and finally, don’t ignore what you intuitively know about yourself or your environment.

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NIAA Graduate Program

Ziggi McCarthy, 2024 NIAA Graduate