What's your background?

Willough lives just across the ACT border in Bungendore, NSW, and enjoys the mix of rural living and proximity to Canberra. “On weekends, I like spending time with my family on the farm where I grew up in Braidwood. I also enjoy taking my golden retriever puppy, Milly, on walks and car trips to explore new places.” 

“I love spending time outdoors, especially camping trips with family or friends, heading to the beach whenever I can, exploring Canberra’s food scene and occasionally checking out local events.”

After graduating from the University of New England with a Bachelor of Agribusiness, majoring in finance, she knew that she had a strong interest in finance and economic operations.

What was your experience in the Finance Graduate Program?

“My first placement was in the Financial Analysis, Reporting and Management Division, where I learnt more about financial principles, public sector accounting and government reporting.” 

“I then moved into my current role, where I expanded my skillset in policy implementation and stakeholder engagement. I discovered a genuine interest in government property operations around leasing. The Finance Graduate Program has significantly shaped my career aspirations.”

Willough found that working in a central agency like Finance is an incredibly rewarding experience, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to a variety of policy areas and support government initiatives across the public sector. 

Willough has also been involved with some of Finance’s cultural and social events, such the annual trivia night. “The events are a lot of fun and a great way to connect with colleagues. I have enjoyed seeing how inclusive and welcoming the culture is here at Finance. These events help build a strong sense of inclusion and community in the workplace.”

“The Graduate Program has been instrumental in helping me build my skills, gain valuable experience across different areas, and form meaningful connections with colleagues and fellow graduates. “

What’s your job about?

Willough helps manage office leases across the country for Australian Government entities. She helps support entities and property service providers to ensure leases align with government policies and are value for money. Her daily tasks involve tracking lease transactions, providing input into guidance documents, and coordinating and running meetings with stakeholders to discuss their long-term accommodation strategy and identify any risks or opportunities.

“I often meet with stakeholders to discuss accommodation planning or analyse leasing proposals. For these meetings, I prepare a brief for the delegate that recommends whether a lease should be supported based on market expectations, Australian Government policy and operational need.”

Could someone with a different background do your job?

“I wasn’t clear on my future career aspirations. I joined Finance knowing I would get a range of opportunities and discover where my interests aligned with government. I’ve learnt not to stress about having everything figured out – your career path isn’t set in stone. Focus on developing strong foundations and what you are truly interested in. The right opportunities will come along.”

What's the coolest thing about your job?

“What I enjoy most about my role is the combination of strategic thinking and practical problem solving. Each day presents new challenges, from collaborating with stakeholders to aligning policies with the broader goals of the government.”

“Through my work, I have had the chance to engage with numerous entities and help shape decisions that align with government priorities. I collaborate with stakeholders to oversee office leases across the country.”

“I’ve learnt to balance government policies with real-world leasing decisions and find solutions that support both operational needs and financial sustainability. The most rewarding moments come when I see my work directly influence decisions, whether it’s seeing an entity gain a better value for money outcome with a landlord or helping an agency navigate a complex risk.”

Willough has had the chance to work closely with senior leaders, particularly when preparing briefings and supporting decision-making on lease transactions. “Their mentorship has been invaluable in helping me refine my strategic thinking, communication skills and understanding of high-level decision-making processes. I’ve learned a lot from their insights, especially when it comes to balancing competing priorities and aligning with government objectives.”

“I look forward to continuing to contribute to the department’s critical role.”

1 piece of advice for yourself when you were a student...

Willough’s advice is to say yes to more opportunities – take on different experiences, even if they’re outside your comfort zone. You never know what skills you'll gain or where they might lead you.