First Nations Pathway Graduate Program (Feb 2026)

Telstra Graduate Program 2026 – First Nations 
 
Our Graduate Program is designed to nurture your talents and ambitions through hands-on experience and dedicated support. We value the unique perspectives and skills that a diverse workforce brings, and we are committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and included. At Telstra, we believe that embracing diversity and promoting inclusion strengthens our community, enriches our workplace, and enhances customer experiences. 

Through our Graduate Program, you’ll gain practical, real-world experience that aligns with your studies and career goals. We encourage you to bring your authentic self to work and provide the technology and support needed to work flexibly and effectively. 

First Nations Interview Guarantee  

Increasing diversity happens one decision at a time. It’s all about getting the right talent in front of our hiring managers.  

Did you know we have an interview guarantee process in place for shortlisted First Nations candidates? This means any external candidate who identifies as First Nations and is shortlisted for a role in Australia, will be automatically offered an interview.   

Your Telstra Journey: 

At Telstra, you’ll shape the future with cutting-edge technology, connect with industry experts, and enhance your skills through tailored development programs. Recognised as one of Australia's Top 100 Graduate and Intern employers, we offer endless possibilities and the support to unlock your full potential. Collaborate with experts and embark on a journey of continuous learning and growth.  

Because we put the customer at the heart of everything we do, you’ll help us make a difference in all communities we serve. We value growth opportunities, enabling you to define your own career with a bright future. You’ll join a team that respects each other and welcomes new ideas.  

We offer flexibility, as we understand it's about what you do, not where you are. You'll be supported by our strong First Nations employees’ network ensuring you have support throughout your time at Telstra. 

What We Offer:  

• Enjoy the benefit of flexibility, hybrid work setups & additional leave options 
• 30% discounts on Telstra products & services, a Telstra mobile and so much more 
• Engage with customers through virtual and onsite experiences 
• Thrive in a learning journey designed just for our grads 
• Connect with your local grad cohort in monthly sessions & events 
• Gain hands-on experience through real projects with real cutting edge tech 
• Partner with a buddy for your first year to navigate the business and your role 
• Build relationships with senior staff through mentorship opportunities 
• Enjoy social events like Grad ball, cruises, and after-work competitions 
• A diverse & inclusive environment where we are committed to creating inclusive experiences for all our graduates 
• Access to our wellbeing programs & resources to help support and coach you on your journey  

Our Commitment  

At Telstra, we provide support and a safe space for our employees. We have several employee representation groups, including the First Nations ERG, led by representatives and a Senior Leadership Sponsor. 

The First Nations ERG aims to: 

• Represent First Nations employees 
• Foster understanding 
• Strengthen connections with the broader First Nations community 
• Create opportunities for First Nations people 

Telstra recognises the 26th of January can be difficult for some, so employees can work on this day and take another leave day in lieu. 

We’ve also partnered with CareerTrackers to offer paid, multi-year internships for First Nations university students in Australia. We host 20 interns each year to improve their workforce participation and develop future talent. We’re working on increasing First Nations employment and enhancing connections through digital literacy, e-health, and community partnerships. 

Program eligibility  

We’re looking for students who have the right technical skills and education in these areas:   

Technical Pathways 

• Software Engineering  
• Network Engineering  
• Information and Cyber Security 
• Data Analytics and Management 
• Technology Consulting and Solutions   

Corporate and Non-Tech Pathways 

• Product and Service Design 
• Strategy, Finance and Business  

You can learn about each of these pathways on our website.  

Our 2026 Graduate Program is open to university students who have completed their most recent tertiary education qualification within the last three years up to the commencement of the Program in February 2026. (I.e. graduating between 2023, 2024 and 2025).  You must have also completed a minimum of an undergraduate degree within this timeframe at an Australian University. 

You can read more about our eligibility criteria and get your questions answered on our website.

Application Process: 

1. Submit your CV, Academic Transcript (unofficial accepted), and Right-To-Work documents (Australian Passport/Birth Certificate or relevant Visa).
2. Eligible candidates will complete a HireVue recorded video interview and assessment task.
3. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to our final interview day.
4. Successful candidates will undergo final background checks and receive their offer. 

Applications close at 11.59pm AEDT, Wednesday 2nd April 2025. 

We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce in all its forms. We encourage applicants from diverse gender, cultural and linguistic backgrounds and applicants who may be living with a disability. We also offer flexibility in all our roles, to ensure everyone can participate.  

To learn more about how we support our people, including accessibility adjustments we can provide you through the recruitment process, visit our website.