Ridhi Gupta

Graduate Officer at Future Leaders Graduate Program (Queensland Government)
Master of Environmental Science at Australian National University (ANU)

The opportunity to work in three different teams is invaluable. It provided me with a better understanding of where I’d like my career to progress.

About you

Hi, I am Ridhi. I was born and raised in India and moved to Australia for my postgraduate degree. I have a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology, and I completed my master's degree in environmental science from Australian National University in Canberra and moved to Brisbane when the opportunity to join Future Leaders Graduate Program arose. I’ll say even though I love the city, I’m still adjusting to the humidity!

What interested you most about the program?

I was intrigued by Australia’s public sector ever since I started my postgraduate, since the public sector plays a major role in environment and climate action. However, being an international citizen, it is difficult to find positions in the public sector. Since the Future Leaders graduate program allows temporary residents to apply, I wasn’t going to pass on the opportunity to explore and work in the Queensland Government.

How was the recruitment process?

It felt overwhelming to start the process – it had several stages, but it was streamlined and very smooth. For the interview, I opted for a virtual assessment centre and when I was trying to book a session, they were all already full. In a complete panic mode, I emailed the graduate team, and they were so lovely and supportive and helped me book a slot for the virtual assessment. Having the option to do a virtual assessment is extremely helpful and considerate for the candidates applying from outside of South-East Queensland.

Is the program what you thought it would be?

I didn’t come in with any expectations - having no experience of working in the public sector. I’ll definitely say, you don’t have to worry about having a different educational or professional background. My graduate cohort is an amazing mix of people with different backgrounds – academic, professional, and ethnicities. The graduate team also arranges a range of learning and development sessions to prepare the graduates for a career in the Queensland Government.

Both the teams I have worked in so far have been absolutely amazing and supportive and given me opportunities to explore a multitude of tasks. My supervisor during the first rotation arranged weekly ‘Legislation 101’ sessions with me, so I felt more confident and prepared for a career in public service, which was extremely considerate.

Has the program shaped your career direction?

The opportunity to work in three different teams is invaluable. It provided me with a better understanding of where I’d like my career to progress. The extensive learning and development provided as part of the program also equips the graduates with an array of essential transferable skills for career progression in the public service.

The built-in network of the graduate cohort, former grads, graduate team, and the teams you work with is an unparalleled perk of the program.

What have the highlights of the program been so far?

I got the opportunity to do state-wide consultation workshops for a strategy during my first rotation. It has definitely been the highlight of my first year in the program. Travelling around regional and remote Queensland with my team and meeting various stakeholders was an incredible experience.

Being a graduate, you can request to be a part of opportunities, meetings, projects which are highly sought after, and the teams try their best to give you that experience.

Do you have any tips and advice for students/graduates thinking about applying for Future Leaders?

Even if you are a tiny bit interested in a public service career, definitely apply for the program. It is a tremendous steppingstone for future career opportunities. Be confident, authentic, and adaptive during the application process and the graduate program.

Sarah Galvin

Graduate Officer at Future Leaders Graduate Program (Queensland Government)
Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) at QUT (Queensland University of Technology)

Without the diversity of government departments in the Future Leaders Graduate program, I would never have been afforded the opportunity to work in disaster management, and consequently, would never have known about this career pathway!

About you

I am 22 years old, from Brisbane, and graduated from a Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) from Queensland University of Technology. I balanced working two jobs with full time study and a short community placement supporting neurodivergent kids in a rugby union club.

I love travelling and had the opportunity to complete a semester abroad in Manchester during my study. I also spent six months travelling around Europe, North Africa, and South-East Asia before starting my ‘big girl job’ as a 2025 Future Leaders Graduate.

Early on in my studies, I realised that a career in psychology was absolutely not for me. I had no idea what I was going to do after university, but I did know that I wanted to make a difference for people in the community.

What interested you most about the program?

While in my final semester of university, I started looking into different graduate programs and discovered the Future Leaders Graduate Program. An ex-colleague of mine had left our retail job to begin working as a graduate in this program and spoke very highly of the work environment and the overall graduate experience.

To be completely honest, I didn’t really know what to expect, but as I began to learn more about the graduate program, I knew this was the pathway for me.

How was the recruitment process?

I did find the recruitment process a bit overwhelming, however, in comparison to other graduate programs, this recruitment was clear in communicating the tasks required at each stage, making it feel less daunting. Although slightly stressful, I did actually enjoy participating in the group interview, as it allowed me to talk and work with other candidates and get a feel for what it would be like in the graduate program. I really enjoyed talking with like-minded people and after attending the group interview stage, I knew I desperately wanted to become a graduate in the Queensland Government.

For this recruitment process, I regret not reaching out to the Future Leaders team to receive an adjustment. I have ADHD. I always thought that requesting an adjustment would make me look unfavourable in comparison to other candidates and inhibit my chances of employment. But this is not the case!

The Future Leaders team are 100% here to help you be the best candidate you can be and asking for an adjustment will not impact how you are assessed.

Now, as I look to find a permanent job in government, I always reach out to the recruiter and ask for some extra time to ensure I can perform my best during an interview. If you would like to know more about each stage of the recruitment process to help you determine if you need an adjustment, the Future Leaders team have additional information to help.

What have the highlights of the program been so far?

For me, the most enjoyable aspect of the program is connecting with other graduates and building not only a strong network across government, but lifelong friends.

Another program highlight has been rotating across different government departments and teams. I have really enjoyed being able to experience different types of public service work and meet new people across different government departments. Particularly, I was fortunate to have completed my second six-month rotation at Queensland Corrective Services in the Disruptive Events Management Unit. I had no experience in disaster management prior to working in this team, but I had such an amazing time here that I will hopefully continue working in this space.

Without the diversity of government departments in teams within the Future Leaders Graduate program, I would never have been afforded the opportunity to work in disaster management, and consequently, would never have known about this career pathway!

Do you have any tips and advice for students/graduates thinking about applying for Future Leaders?

I would encourage anyone thinking of applying for Future Leaders to connect with current or past graduates . At the assessment centre current graduates are available to discuss your questions about the program, and if you are successful you’ll also have a graduate buddy – definitely make the most of these opportunities to connect and ask questions! As graduates, we completely understand your thoughts and feelings and are happy to help in any way we can.

If you would like to know more about the program and hear directly from a graduate about their experience, I am also happy to chat on LinkedIn, just send me a message!

Rohan Mate

Graduate Officer at Future Leaders Graduate Program (Queensland Government)
Bachelor of Environmental Management (Honours) at The University of Queensland (UQ)

From that very first week I was hooked, the program offers so many learning and development opportunities as well as a built-in network of other grads who are on the exact same journey as you.

About you

I was born and raised in Brisbane. I graduated from the University of Queensland with a degree in Environmental Management. My honours thesis was an Analysis of historical wetland composition change in the Great Barrier Reef catchment. Through university, I worked in hospitality and also had a brief stint working for Brisbane City Council.

What interested you most about the program?

I think what interested me most about the program is the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change. I truly feel that this program offers a great chance to be involved in exciting subject matter areas and make a meaningful difference for Queensland.

How was the recruitment process? If you requested an adjustment, consider sharing that experience to encourage others

The recruitment process was really straightforward and communicative. Each stage, from the online written assessment to the in-person assessment centre, was all interesting and provided valuable experience. The assessors and interviewers were very kind and understanding about how nervous everyone was.

Is the program what you thought it would be?

I really wasn’t sure what to expect heading into this program, I had very limited experience and there was some imposter syndrome on the first day as I was meeting my fellow grads who all seemed so intelligent and put together. However, from that very first week I was hooked, the program offers so many learning and development opportunities as well as a built-in network of other grads who are on the exact same journey as you.

Has the program shaped your career direction?

The program has inspired me to continue working in public policy. It has provided me with the opportunity to work across different portfolios, allowing me to engage in work I am passionate about across various areas. I am very excited to continue to build my career in government.

What have the highlights of the program been so far?

The relationships I have built both in the graduate program and within my rotation teams have been a major highlight for me. I can honestly say I’ve made some great friends through the program, and it’s been fantastic to meet like-minded people and build a strong early-career professional network.

Do you have any tips and advice for students/graduates thinking about applying for Future Leaders?

This program is really what you make of it. There are so many opportunities presented both through the program and through your rotation, so I would encourage anyone to take every opportunity that is presented to you and to do as much as possible to learn from those around you.

Tatiana Briody

Graduate Officer at Future Leaders Graduate Program (Queensland Government)
PhD in Agricultural Science at The University of Queensland (UQ)

I often say it was one of the best recruitment processes to go through – imagine, enjoying an interview! The team was kind, professional and available all throughout, doing their best to ensure I felt supported and ready for that first day on the program.

About you

I relocated to Queensland to complete a PhD in agricultural science and in that time, I’ve also gained experience across government, academia, education, and healthcare. I’ve taken an organic approach to my career, stepping into diverse roles and leadership opportunities that value learning, initiative, and impact.

What interested you most about the program

What interested me most about the program was the opportunity to learn and undertake work experience in public policy without needing to reskill first – it allowed me to learn on the job and see if a career in the state government is for me.

How was the recruitment process?

I often say it was one of the best recruitment processes to go through – imagine, enjoying an interview! The team was kind, professional and available all throughout, doing their best to ensure I felt supported and ready for that first day on the program.

Is the program what you thought it would be?

I had few expectations coming in, my only hope was that I would learn what public policy looks like in practice. The program has gone above and beyond, providing structured learning, extensive networking and the freedom to move into new opportunities as they arise. Although we are part of a cohort, it really does feel like your own well-supported journey into a career in the government.

How does the program fit into your long-term goal/career direction? / Has the program shaped your career direction?

The program has broadened my perspective on how a PhD can be leveraged for a career in government. I initially thought my academic background would limit me to that field, but through this program I have learnt how to apply my research and analytical skills to contribute across a range of issues facing our state.

What have the highlights of the program been so far?

Building connections with like-minded, intelligent and driven people within the Queensland Government – regardless of where the future takes me, I am grateful to have worked with and learnt from the incredibly talented people across our state government. It is a privilege to be in the room where the decisions are made and to meet the people influencing the lives of everyday Queenslanders.

Do you have any tips and advice for students/graduates thinking about applying for Future Leaders?

Don’t overthink it – your unique experiences and skills will have a place and benefit in the Queensland Government, so throw your hat in the ring and see where the opportunity takes you!

Maddisen Todd

Graduate Officer at Future Leaders Graduate Program (Queensland Government)
Bachelor of Health Sciences at The University of Queensland (UQ)

I have had amazing rotations at the Department of Justice and Queensland Corrective Services – two departments I never would have considered before the program, but they have taught me so much and shown me that I can find my passion in unexpected places if I give it a chance.

About You

Hi, I’m Maddisen. I was born and raised in Brisbane. I studied a Bachelor of Health Sciences (Clinical Health) and a Master of Public Health at the University of Queensland. During my studies I had the opportunity to undertake placement with St John’s Ambulance Service and complete research with the National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research.

What interested you most about the program?

I am passionate about making widespread changes in public health and having a positive impact on my community. I knew I wanted to work in policy, but I wasn’t yet sure what my exact area of interest was. This program was the perfect choice for me because it has given me the opportunity to experience several different areas without feeling like I had to lock myself into something.

How was the recruitment process?

Exciting! It wasn’t like any other recruitment process I have been a part of. It was overwhelming at first, but the graduate program team was amazing at communicating each step and transparent about when we would hear if we were successful after each round which reduced some of my nerves.

Is the program what you thought it would be?

The program has been better than I could have ever imagined. Of course, I was nervous coming into it. I wasn’t sure what to expect. I knew I was passionate about policy, but I wasn’t sure where I fit, or if I would fit. But the Future Leaders team has been incredibly supportive from recruitment to induction and throughout all my rotations.

I have had amazing rotations at the Department of Justice and Queensland Corrective Services – two departments I never would have considered before the program, but they have taught me so much and shown me that I can find my passion in unexpected places if I give it a chance.

How has the program shaped your career direction?

Having the opportunity to experience different departments/ teams has helped me narrow down what I am most passionate about and find my niche. I can take all the things I have loved about my rotations to guide where I will go after the program. On top of that, I have formed an amazing, lifelong network which includes colleagues, other grads, the Future Leaders team and my mentor, who have been pivotal in my career journey.

What have the highlights of the program been so far?

The highlights of this program are endless. Training days are definitely some of my favourite days at work. As grads, we get access to such high quality and informative training that targets both hard and soft skills. My personal favourites have been a program focused on cultural capability and another program about resilience and wellbeing. Not only have I learnt so much, but training days also give me the opportunity to connect with my fellow grads and the Future Leaders team. I have made life-long friends from this program.

Tips and advice

My biggest tip is always - “be yourself”. This applies to recruitment, training days and during your rotations. This program will give you the opportunity to enhance your skills and experience, but your passion, essence and all the things that make you unique will take you a long way.

If you are considering this program, my advice is do it. Take the leap, you won’t regret it.

Hannah Green

Graduate Officer at Future Leaders Graduate Program (Queensland Government)
Bachelor of Business, majoring in International Business at QUT (Queensland University of Technology)

The program was broader and more flexible than I initially expected. I assumed that it would require extensive pre-requisite knowledge, but it instead values transferable skills like communication, problem-solving and project work.

About you

I am originally from Gladstone in Central Queensland and moved to Brisbane to study a Bachelor of Business majoring in International Business at the Queensland University of Technology.

As part of my QUT degree, I spent a year in Vienna, Austria, where I gained a Bachelor of Science, in Business and Economics, specialising in Economy, Climate Change and Sustainability. During this time, I strengthened my understanding of innovation and business development and grew a keen interest in solving environmental and energy-based issues that will shape the future.

What interested you most about the program?

The graduate program allows graduates to work on real, meaningful solutions that directly impact Queenslanders. The program is designed so that no two placements are the same, and over the two-year graduate journey, your rotations will help you to discover where your strengths and interests lie. It has a strong focus on leadership development, offering structured training and mentoring, and felt like the perfect fit to begin my career by combining both of my degrees into one meaningful role.

How was the recruitment process?

The recruitment process was well-structured and multi-stage, involving an online application, job simulation task and assessment centre with interviews and group activities. The Future Leaders Graduate Team were well organised, provided clear communication and guidance throughout each stage. While it is normal to feel a mix of excitement, nerves and challenge when beginning a recruitment process, I remember that the Future Leaders recruitment process, and especially the assessment centre environment, felt fun and supportive.

Is the program what you thought it would be?

The program was broader and more flexible than I initially expected. I assumed that it would require extensive pre-requisite knowledge, but it instead values transferable skills like communication, problem-solving and project work. The rotations have shown that government work extends beyond policy writing and includes strategy, stakeholder engagement and delivery roles.

At times, the policy language and processes have been challenging, but the learning support from your supervisors has helped bridge that quickly. The exposure to different teams and inclusiveness for non-policy graduates, like myself, has made the transition into Government less intimidating.

How does the program fit into your long-term goal/career direction? / Has the program shaped your career direction?

Before starting, my career goals were fairly open, but the program has helped me identify where my skills and strengths best fit. I have been provided with opportunities to align my degrees with my work, through exploring rotations in energy- and natural resources-focused areas.

The program fits well into my long-term career direction by giving me broad exposure to different areas of government and leadership pathways. It has also increased my confidence to pursue roles that sit at the intersection of policy, industry, and sustainability.

What have the highlights of the program been so far?

Highlights of the program so far have included the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that contribute to real community and government outcomes, being given opportunities to travel/ attend site tours to gain hands-on experience, and meeting fellow graduates who become your built-in best friends.

My rotation experiences have been especially valuable in allowing me to gain exposure to different teams and ways of working.

Do you have any tips and advice for students/graduates thinking about applying for Future Leaders?

My advice for students/ graduates thinking about applying for the Future Leaders Graduate Program is to be yourself during the recruitment process and don’t try to second guess what the assessors are looking for. Keep an open mind about the types of roles and rotations you might experience, focus on clearly articulating your transferable skills, and apply a genuine interest in learning, as curiosity and adaptability are highly valued.

Lotte Lockefeer

Graduate Officer at Future Leaders Graduate Program (Queensland Government)
Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics at The University of Queensland (UQ)

There’s a misconception that the public service is a burdensome administrative brick building built on an unmoving bureaucratic foundation, but this is false. It’s one of the most dynamic and interesting places I’ve ever worked.

About you

I completed a degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics, most of which involved studying ideas written by a bunch of old guys who haven’t been around for centuries and arguing about things that some might say don’t really matter! While I love theory and abstractions, being a Future Leaders graduate allows me to exercise discretion, blending my love of systems thinking and logic to contribute to good policy. I still love reading and learning, choosing rotations that have forced me to stretch and push myself. But it’s the practical, real-world nature of policymaking, which demands holistic and strategic thinking, that continues to draw me in.

In my spare time, I like riding my bike, op shopping, and playing gigs in a band around Brisbane 😊

What interested you most about the program?

I’ve always valued the idea of working for a public institution. As a public servant, you have a unique opportunity to contribute to work that influences the whole economy. Where private markets cannot or will not step in, government becomes a necessary vessel for support or change. This program grants you the opportunity to work across government departments and teams, allowing you to learn so much about the different cogs that make up the Queensland Government.

I was able to work in a collaborative governance model that responded to regionally based public servants, then in low carbon liquid fuels and renewable energies, before finally working for a regulator in the Office of Industrial Relations for electrical safety. There’s no other program that exposes you to so much diversity!

How was the recruitment process? If you requested an adjustment, consider sharing that experience to encourage others

It was supportive, responsive, and clear. For the in-person interview, existing graduates are there to greet and support you, answering any pressing questions you may have beforehand. Email correspondence was fast and responsive; the Future Leaders team was always there to answer questions and help.

Is the program what you thought it would be?

Yes and no. I knew policy wouldn’t fit the cookie-cutter academic definition of the policy cycle, but it’s been interesting to see how each team manages this uncertainty. Authorising environments and the beloved Overton window become incredibly important in areas where political appetite is unknown or undisclosed. My first two rotations reflected this. Strategic policy, learning how to clearly communicate and brief up to executives, taking them along the journey, is a skill I’ve developed over the last year, and something that makes me excited to come to work every day. There’s a misconception that the public service is a burdensome administrative brick building built on an unmoving bureaucratic foundation, but this is false. It’s one of the most dynamic and interesting places I’ve ever worked.

How does the program fit into your long-term goal/career direction? Has the program shaped your career direction?

My rotation in low carbon liquid fuels has opened my eyes to the subject matter I want to continue working with. I got to provide economic and financial advice on the commerciality of different abatement pathways for fuel types and construct responses to the Federal renewable energy policy for the hard-to-abate industry. Without Future Leaders, I never would have known that my passion lay in clean energy finance and energy systems. The rotation has given me so much room to extend myself and build my skillset.

Beyond the professional side, the program has also given me space to develop as an individual. I have grown up in Brisbane, but this new period has felt so novel and exciting that the city feels like a whole new place to live.

What have been the highlights of the program so far?

Training sessions with the entire cohort and making friends has been incredible. Meeting people who work in my building and beginning to feel at home in the Queensland public service has been rewarding as well.

Do you have any tips and advice for students/graduates thinking about applying for Future Leaders?

Keep an open mind. You’ll be surprised by what excites you, what challenges you, and where you end up thriving. The rotations are designed to expose you to areas you might never have considered…embrace that. Also, lean into the cohort and the network you’re building. The people you meet will become your sounding board, your collaborators, and often your friends. Finally, don’t underestimate how much this program can shape not just your career, but your whole life, professionally and personally.

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Unique and diverse careers

About the program