WA Government

Who we are

At Main Roads Western Australia, our vision for reconciliation is to continue to drive positive relationships between Aboriginal and non‑Aboriginal Australians and to build mutual respect and understanding with Aboriginal communities and stakeholders.

The Transport Portfolio recognises that Aboriginal people are the Traditional Owners of the land, and reconciliation is a key part of how we work, plan and deliver transport outcomes across Western Australia.

The Graduate Aboriginal Engagement Program supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduates to contribute to meaningful engagement, build capability and make a lasting impact across communities.

About the program

The Graduate Aboriginal Engagement Program is a structured graduate pathway designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduates to build skills, confidence and experience while contributing to Aboriginal Engagement and Business Participation initiatives across the Transport Portfolio.

Graduates work as part of a committed multi‑agency team, supporting high‑profile projects and engagement activities that are shaping the future of transport in Western Australia.

The program provides hands‑on experience, formal training and structured rotations, supported by experienced and culturally aware professionals.

On successful completion of the program, graduates are offered permanent ongoing employment with Main Roads.

What you will work on

As a Graduate Aboriginal Engagement Officer, you will gain exposure to a wide range of functions, projects and environments. Your experience may include:

• supporting Aboriginal engagement activities across road and infrastructure projects
• assisting with Aboriginal business participation initiatives
• working with stakeholders, communities and internal teams
• contributing to engagement strategies, communications and project delivery
• participating in high profile engineering and transport projects across Western Australia.

The rotational structure allows you to explore different areas while building strong professional capability and confidence.

Rotations and development

We offer a well structured rotation plan and training program to support your learning and development throughout the program.

You will be supported through:

• hands on learning across diverse work areas
• guidance from an experienced and supportive graduate team
• ongoing professional feedback and development advice
• opportunities to work across metropolitan and regional Western Australia.

Our aim is to support your growth into a confident professional with strong foundations for a long term career.

What is in it for you

• Competitive salary and 12% superannuation
• Permanent, full time employment on successful completion of the program
• Support from a dedicated graduate team
• Structured learning, rotations and development opportunities
• Flexible working arrangements and a supportive work life culture
• Opportunities to work across WA, including regional locations
• The chance to build strong professional and personal networks
• Work for an organisation committed to reconciliation, diversity and inclusion

Application information

Applications for our Graduate Program are open now and close Tuesday 7 April 2026 at 1:00 PM.

Who should apply

The Graduate Aboriginal Engagement Program is ideal for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduates who are passionate about making a positive impact and supporting meaningful engagement outcomes.

You're encouraged to apply if you:

• are motivated to learn and build confidence before graduation or early in your career
• enjoy working collaboratively in team environments
• are interested in Aboriginal engagement, community relations or participation programs
• want to contribute to projects that benefit communities across WA.

Eligibility requirements

Main Roads Western Australia recognises Aboriginality as a genuine occupational qualification under section 50(d) of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984.

To apply, you must be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, identify as such, and be recognised by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

You must also:

• be a recent university graduate within 2 years of completing your degree, or
• be completing your degree by July 2026 for the mid‑year intake, or
• be completing your degree by December 2026 for the 2027 intake
• be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident.

Eligible qualifications

Eligible bachelor's degrees include:

• Bachelor of Social Sciences
• Bachelor of Arts (Indigenous Australian Culture, Indigenous Community Management, Indigenous Knowledge, History and Heritage)
• Bachelor of Applied Science (Indigenous Community Management and Development)
• Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing)
• Bachelor of Communications
• Bachelor of Communications and Marketing

Learn more about this program and other graduate opportunities on our Graduate & Students portal.

Our commitment to diversity

Main Roads is committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We foster an inclusive environment that values strengths, differences and lived experience.

We proudly support diversity through initiatives including WORK180 endorsement, Disability Confident recruitment, Pride in Diversity membership, CEOs for Gender Equity, and our Reconciliation Action Plan.