Using the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment’s Org Chart for Job Success
Landing a role in the Australian Government isn’t just about submitting a resume — it’s about strategic targeting. At ATS Resume, we help job seekers like you decode department structures so you can apply with clarity, confidence, and a competitive edge.
In this guide, we focus on one of the most complex and opportunity-rich government entities: the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE). Whether you’re a student looking for a graduate role, a migrant navigating the APS for the first time, or a professional aiming for an EL1 or APS6 promotion, this guide will help you align your application with the department’s internal framework.
What Is an Organisational Chart — and Why It Matters for APS Jobs
The organisational chart (org chart) is not just an admin diagram — it’s your strategic map. It shows:
- Who reports to whom
- How each division is structured (e.g. Biodiversity, Water Policy, Biosecurity)
- Where your target role fits in the hierarchy (e.g. APS5 Project Officer under the Environment Restoration Branch)
- Which sections are likely growing or prioritised based on recent government initiatives
If you’re applying for an advertised job on APSJobs or through the department’s careers portal, referencing the org chart helps you:
- Understand who your future supervisor might be
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to match that specific team’s focus
- Speak confidently about the department’s priorities in your pitch or interview
Key Divisions and Roles to Watch
Some of the department’s major branches include:
- Environment Protection Division – policy advisors, environmental scientists, climate change analysts
- Biosecurity Operations Division – quarantine officers, agricultural inspectors, risk assessors
- Water and Resource Policy Division – water economists, program managers, policy officers
- Corporate and Enabling Services – HR officers, finance analysts, ICT specialists
Each branch typically has a pyramid structure: APS4/APS5 at the base, moving up through APS6, EL1, EL2, and SES levels. Understanding where you fit means you can pitch your experience at the right depth — too vague and you’ll miss the mark, too senior and you’ll be seen as misaligned.
How ATS Resume Customises Your Application for DAWE
We don’t do one-size-fits-all. When you come to us for a resume tailored for the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, we:
- Identify the specific team your role sits within (based on the job ad and org chart)
- Map your experience to that team’s language and goals
- Structure your resume using STAR or SCAR formats preferred in APS applications
- Integrate key selection criteria seamlessly, avoiding clunky responses
Example: Applying for an APS6 Senior Policy Officer role under the Biosecurity Strategy team? We’ll highlight your stakeholder engagement, your contribution to cross-border policy initiatives, and experience with legislative reform — all matched to that exact branch’s mandate.
Free Resume Review – Know If You’re APS-Ready
Not sure if your resume is hitting the mark for government jobs?
Email us at info@atsresume.com.au for a FREE resume review. We’ll check for:
- Proper APS formatting and language
- Relevant public service keywords
- Alignment with job level (APS4 vs EL1, etc.)
- Gaps or opportunities to elevate your government readiness
Special Advice for Migrants and Newcomers to the APS
The Australian Public Service values diverse skills — but you need to present your experience the right way. Here are our top tips:
- Translate your role titles to the APS structure (e.g. ‘Program Officer’ vs ‘Assistant Director’)
- Show your understanding of the APS values: integrity, service, accountability, respect, and stewardship
- Highlight local experience — even volunteering or short-term contracts help build relevance
Take the Next Step With ATS Resume
Understanding the department’s organisational chart is the first move. Let us help you make the next one with confidence.
🔍 Ready to target a job in DAWE? Email your resume to info@atsresume.com.au for a free review, or visit www.atsresume.com.au to learn how we can support your APS career goals.
Your future role in the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment might be just a few smart steps away — and we’re here to guide you every inch of the journey.
