Spotlight on BDO’s Early Careers program

Our Early Careers Program will kickstart your learning journey. From our four-week vacation program to our twelve-month graduate program, joining BDO will empower you to realise your own possibilities from day one. 

Vacation Program

The Vacation Program is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn as much as possible alongside our experienced professionals.

We offer the Vacation Program across Audit, Business Services, Tax and Advisory. In this program, you’ll have the opportunity to work with your team on real client work, developing your technical ability and understanding of how your team operates to help their clients.

You will have the opportunity to network, build relationships, and develop your skillset by participating in our Innovation Challenge, which gives you the opportunity to attend skill workshops and work with a team of other vacationers to pitch a solution to a business challenge (which could go on to be adopted in the firm).

The Vacation Program is the perfect way to kickstart your career. The four-week program is paid and runs during both the winter and summer breaks. Participating in this program could lead to a graduate role at BDO after you finish university.

Graduate Program

Ready to take the leap into full-time work post-university? Say hello to BDO Activate, our 12-month graduate program designed to set you up for success by activating your potential from day one.

When you start with BDO as a graduate, you will be assigned a buddy and a manager. Your buddy is responsible for showing you the ropes (they were in your shoes not too long ago!). They’ll help you find your way around the office and will be your go-to for any questions as you settle in.

Your manager is your go-to person for performance and career conversations. They are responsible for helping you understand the expectations of your role, how to navigate your career with BDO, and will help you to grow and develop professionally.

As a graduate, at BDO, you’ll work on meaningful client and project work from day one, growing your knowledge and experience in your chosen team. You’ll participate in a structured program that includes skill workshops, as well as social and networking events.      

Beyond the graduate program, BDO offers a wealth of personal and professional development opportunities. From postgraduate study support (including CA and CPA), networking, workshops/conferences, leadership programs and much more, we invest continually in your growth and career advancement.     

Choosing your team and role

Feeling unsure about life after university? At BDO there's a role that's just right for you, whether you're interested in accounting, auditing, consulting, or something else. Check out our student careers page to hear from our people, learn more about each of our teams, and discover which team will best suit your interests and capabilities.

If you have any questions, reach out to our Early Careers team on LinkedIn or meet them at a career fair to learn more. 

Remember, it's about finding where your skills and interests match up with BDO's opportunities. Have fun exploring!

What does the recruitment process look like?

Our Early Careers team has streamlined the recruitment process to ensure it's a positive experience for you. We recommend applying early as our roles fill quickly.

How to Apply

1. Visit our Student Careers page and navigate to the Student Careers section.
2. Research and find your BDO Fit: Find the team and position that best matches your qualifications, interests, and current stage of studies.
3. Submit your application by filling out the application form and attaching your resume and transcript.

Recruitment Process

1. Our team will review all applications and shortlist candidates.
2. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a video interview where you will answer 3 to 5 questions.
3. Candidates who pass the video interview stage will receive invitations to attend either an assessment centre (in-person group activity and interview) or an individual interview (either in-person or virtual).
4. You’ll hear back from us 2 to 3 days after your assessment centre or interview with an outcome.

Tips to help you during the application and recruitment process

Entering the world of job applications and interviews can be both exciting and daunting for university students. So here are some of our essential tips to help you navigate the recruitment process with confidence.

Before applying

Do your research: Understand BDO’s values, culture, and the team you’re most interested in, to help you decide which role to apply for.

Polish your resume: Ensure your resume is up-to-date and tailored for each application. Highlight relevant qualifications, work or internship experience, projects and extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and experience. Make sure you proofread for any mistakes and try and keep to two pages.

Prepare your transcript: Have a recent copy of your academic transcript ready to submit with your application.

During the recruitment process

Video interviews: Practice answering common interview questions and consider recording yourself to improve your presentation and communication skills. Make sure you test your camera and audio before.

Interviews/assessment centres: Being prepared can help you feel less nervous. Do your research and ask yourself questions in preparation (e.g. “why BDO?”, “why is this team a good fit for me?” and “why am I excited about this opportunity?”). Dress professionally, arrive early, and participate actively in group activities or discussions.

When do applications open?

Applications open Wednesday, 10 July 2024. You can apply via our student careers page. Get in quick, as applications close on Sunday, 4 August 2024.

Starting your career is a big step, but we are here to support you at every stage. If you need any additional support, you can contact our friendly Early Careers team at student.careers@bdo.com.au.