James Cook University (JCU) students will be able to fast-track a career in the Australian Public Service (APS) while remaining in North Queensland, thanks to a new APS Academy Campus based in Townsville.
The Townsville Campus was launched by the Australian Government last week and offers JCU students digital training and entry-level employment with the APS. Programs offered at the Campus support employment for undergraduates and graduates, where students can earn as they learn.
Stepping stone to employment pathways
JCU Vice Chancellor Professor Simon Biggs said the Academy, based at JCU’s Bebegu Yumba Campus in Douglas, is an ideal stepping stone for students looking to work for the APS.
“The Academy gives our students a direct pathway into the APS, which would otherwise force them to leave North Queensland to pursue those same opportunities,” he said.
“James Cook University is grateful to the APS and the Australian Government for realising the advantages of building up a local workforce by basing one of their Academy campuses here at JCU.
“This initiative not only creates jobs in the region but strengthens the local knowledge and experience base of the APS, which will benefit future policy-making in the region.”
The Townsville Campus at JCU is delivered under an initiative announced by the Australian Government last year, which will support data and digital employment pathways in regional locations for undergraduates, graduates and career-changers.