Explore a dynamic and rewarding career in the Australian defence industry! Join an industry at the forefront of innovation, where you'll work on exciting projects, develop sought-after skills, and unlock long-term career opportunities. Be part of a growing sector that offers unique pathways and endless potential for those ready to make an impact.
About DIIP
Are you a motivated Engineering student eager to explore career pathways in Australia's defence industry?
The Defence Industry Internship Program (DIIP) is a national program, offering a unique 12-week, paid internship that provides hands-on experience within one of thousands of small to medium defence industry enterprises. This program is designed to provide students with valuable, real-world experience, and to showcase the cutting-edge technology and innovation that powers the defence industry.
Join DIIP to enhance your skills, build industry connections, and play a part in supporting Australia’s Department of Defence.
Benefits
Students selected for the Defence Industry Internship Program will engage in a 12-week, 450-hour paid internship. Interns will work in innovative organisations using advanced technical systems. This internship is offered on a casual basis, commencing in December 2025, ideally full-time over the university summer break; however, part-time arrangements may be possible with prior approval. Interns will receive a weekly wage of $1161.34 per 37.5 hour week.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the program, students must:
* Be an Australian Citizen
* Be 18 years or older
* Be in your 3rd or 4th year undergrad studies in Engineering or Technology (with a strong academic record)
* Be currently enrolled in an Australian University
* Be able to commit, in a part-time or full-time capacity, to the DIIP for 450-hour duration of the program
* Be able to complete the internship by end of May 2026
* Be eligible to obtain a security clearance to the required level (as required, based on host requirements)
* Have not previously undertaken a DIIP internship
Streams available
The Engineering stream offers opportunities across a range of disciplines including:
* Aerospace/Aeronautical
* Chemical
* Civil
* Data Science
* Electrical/Electronics
* Industrial/Manufacturing
* Machine Learning
* Maritime
* Materials
* Mechatronic
* Mechanical
* Software/Systems
We encourage applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds to apply.
All applications must include the following documents:
* Resume (including a personal statement addressing your suitability for the DIIP as one document)
* Evidence of citizenship – Australian Passport; Australian Birth Certificate; Australian Citizenship certificate
* Academic Transcript (unofficial)
* Academic Reference (Letter of Recommendation) or contact details (phone number and email address) of a personal reference.
Apply now !
Applications must be submitted via the below link on The Career Network, who have been appointed by the Defence Industry to run the DIIP, and an online application form be completed via.
Only applicants who have completed the online application form will be considered for this program.