"Foreign affairs and trade officers work on the policy and operational aspects of Australia's foreign policy and trade interests."
Officers work for the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and are located in Canberra, in other capital cities around Australia, or overseas in Australian diplomatic or consular missions.
A foreign affairs and trade officer may perform the following tasks:
provide policy advice on foreign affairs and trade issues to government ministers
keep the government informed about international strategic, political, economic and trade issues
advise on treaties and on matters of international law
promote the Department's cultural relations program, and environmental and human rights objectives
provide consular advice to members of the public
provide advice about the management and administration of the Department.
When based in embassies or consulates overseas, officers may perform the following tasks:
prepare political and economic analyses
undertake negotiations related to Australia's foreign policy and trade interests
undertake duties associated with the administration of an overseas mission
assist in preparations for ministerial and official visits
participate in cultural and community information activities, including press relations
assist in implementing aid programs
handle enquiries and representations on behalf of Australian authorities
represent Australia at international meetings
undertake consular work (e.g. issuing passports).
Personal Requirements:
interest in Australian and international political and economic environments
strong conceptual and analytical ability
excellent written and oral communication skills
adaptability, flexibility, initiative and resourcefulness
good organisational skills
able to work as a part of a team
sensitive to cultural differences.
Graduates develop generic skills in:
Written expression
Capacity to analyse and interpret in a dispassionate and objective manner
Critical thinking
Knowledge application
Problem solving
Computer literacy
Conceptual ability
Creative self expression
Decision making
Data aquisition and analysis
Communication
Research techniques
Marshalling facts in support of arguments
Personal growth/critical self awareness
Understanding of cultural differences
Relevant Degrees.
These links will take you directly to the UTas handbook
Bachelor of Arts (Major in International Relations, Public Policy or Political Science
