AER 2027 Graduate Program

The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) works to make energy consumers better off, now and in the future. We focus on ensuring a secure, reliable and affordable energy future for Australia as it transitions to net zero emissions.

We regulate electricity networks and covered gas pipelines, in all jurisdictions except Western Australia. We set the amount of revenue that network businesses can recover from customers for using these networks.

In the AER Graduate Program, you will work with a range of energy experts and contribute to important work on Australia’s transition to net zero emissions. You will be supported with ongoing learning and development opportunities, access to flexible working conditions, and regular opportunities to network with all levels of our organisation as you do essential work that benefits all Australians. 

As an AER Graduate, the specific duties you undertake will change with each rotation, reflecting our diverse functions. AER Graduates:

• perform a broad range of tasks such as analysing information, presenting to internal and external stakeholders, responding to correspondence, undertaking research, actively participating in meetings and contributing to papers and recommendations
• build professional relationships and work cohesively with others 
• become a reliable and supportive member of every team they join and
• participate in formal learning and development including orientation, investigation skills, regulation skills, communication skills, writing skills and other professional development activities.

Current graduates are working on:

• contributing to projects that support Australia's energy transition 
• preparing reports and assessments that ensure enforcement and compliance with national, electricity, gas and energy retail laws
• analysing and monitoring electricity network expenditure and market performance data
• providing advice and services within corporate and enabling functions including IT, digital transformation, data governance, legal advice, communications and media engagement.

With us, you will contribute to meaningful work that supports Australia’s energy future. Each rotation will bring new challenges, opportunities to learn and the chance to build your skills in a supportive environment. We are committed to helping you unlock your potential by providing the guidance, development and support you need to succeed.

We have high expectations of our graduates and create a challenging environment for you to succeed in. At the AER, we believe the best version of you is the one that’s true to who you are – and that’s the you we want working alongside us.

We welcome graduates from a wide range of disciplines, including:

• Economics
• Law
• Engineering
• Mathematics, data analysis and/or statistics
• Arts and design
• Business and commerce
• Government and public administration 
• Communications, public-relations and media
• Education and social work
• Finance and accounting
• IT, computer science and technology
• Psychology
• Science

To be eligible for the Graduate Program, you will:

• possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree* 
• have completed your most recent tertiary studies after February 2022
• have a 65% or higher grade-average
• have completed your degree and be able to begin employment at the commencement of the program, February 2027 for an orientation program (potentially interstate)
• be willing to undertake and pass a character clearance (including a National Police Check)
• not be serving a Commonwealth Redundancy Benefit period at the commencement of the program and
• be an Australian citizen.

The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) works to make energy consumers better off, now and in the future. We focus on ensuring a secure, reliable and affordable energy future for Australia as it transitions to net zero emissions. We regulate electricity networks and covered gas pipelines, in all jurisdictions except Western Australia. We set the amount of revenue that network businesses can recover from customers for using these networks. From 1 July 2026, the AER structurally separated from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and transitioned into a standalone non-corporate Commonwealth entity with its own accountable authority, staff and budgetary control. The separation of the AER from the ACCC is a significant regulatory reform aimed at improving the governance and operational autonomy of the AER.