Port Futures Program - Gap Year Pathway

The Opportunity 

Finishing Year 12 and not quite sure what's next? 

What if you could get paid to explore different career paths, gain real-world experience, build professional skills, and complete a TAFE qualification all while working at one of Australia's largest ports? 

Port of Newcastle's Port Futures Gap Year Pathway is designed for school leavers looking to take the next step before committing to university or a long-term career path. 

Over 12 months, you'll work alongside experienced professionals and rotate through a variety of business areas including Operations, ESG, People & Culture, Finance, Projects, Technology, Safety and more. No two months are the same! You'll gain hands-on experience, develop valuable workplace skills, build your professional network, and discover what career path excites you most. 

Whether you're interested in business, technology, environment, people & culture, projects, infrastructure, or simply figuring out what comes next, this program is designed to help you build confidence and create opportunities for your future. 

What's included? 

• 12-month paid full-time position
• One paid TAFE study day each week 
• Exposure to a range of career pathways across PON
• Mentoring and support from experienced professionals
• Structured learning and development opportunities 
• Potential pathway into future Cadet and Graduate Programs 

What You Bring 

We're not looking for years of experience; we are looking for people who are excited about their future and ready to start building it! 

To be successful, you'll be: 

• Graduating Year 12 this year or a recent Year 12 graduate (within the last 12 months)
• Be at least 18 years of age at program commencement 
• Available & committed to completing the 12-month program 
• Curious and eager to learn 
• Motivated to develop new skills 
• A team player with a positive attitude 
• Willing to step outside your comfort zone and make the most of every opportunity 

Please note: Candidates shortlisted for the next stage will be invited to attend an Assessment Centre. Any offer of employment will be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment medical assessment and reference check. 

What we offer 

Port of Newcastle provides many benefits for our valued employees, a few of which are:  

• Agile work environment with work from home options 
• Focus on professional growth 
• Optional workplace giving program: supporting employees in giving back to the Newcastle community  
• Work180 endorsement: PON is recognised as a top 101 employer for women in 2025  
• Opportunity to be involved in PON’s Reconciliation Action Plan (Innovate)

How to Apply  

Ready to start your future with Port of Newcastle? Submit your resume and a short cover letter telling us a little about yourself, why you're interested in the Port Futures Gap Year Pathway, and what you hope to gain from the experience. Please also include details for two current referees. If you have any questions about the program, please contact Chelsea, chelsea.oldfield@pon.com.au

The Port of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to maintaining an inclusive environment for all employees. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants are encouraged.  

Port of Newcastle acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters of Newcastle Harbour, the Awabakal and Worimi People, and pays respect to all Elders past, present and emerging.