About us
Western Australia’s public health system, known as WA Health, is one of the largest employers in the state – and WA is the largest area in the world covered by a single health authority!
Our department plays an important role in supporting the WA public health system.
We have 1,600 staff and provide direction and support to our health services, hospitals and other areas of public health, working together for a healthier WA.
We are proud to offer a traineeship pathway that can set you up for a career with the department or help broaden your career options for the future.
Benefits of doing a traineeship with us
If you work with us, you:
- join a group of trainees on the same journey and build your network – you won’t be the only one completing a traineeship at the department
- get the chance to work with teams across a variety of fascinating areas
- are paid to learn useful new job skills in a supportive environment with a dedicated supervisor and program coordinator.
At the end of your school based traineeship there may be an opportunity to continue with a post school traineeship. This offers you further qualifications and a proven pathway to securing ongoing employment.
Perfect for …
We are looking for enthusiastic young people who are:
- keen to learn new skills and be a valued member of the team
- open to learning and receiving feedback
- ready to experience working in a busy office environment – don’t let the name fool you, this is not hospital based work.
- interested in a future career with the department.
Traineeship locations
Our head office is in East Perth, with nearby public transport.
We also have other smaller offices in within the Perth metro area where you may have the opportunity to work.
Have a chat to us
Want to know more?
There are no silly questions, so reach out if you want to learn more about our traineeship program.
Jimmy Douglas (Program Coordinator)
Phone: 9422 2491
Email: DOH.OrganisationalDevelopment@health.wa.gov.au
How to apply
Applications open on 22 June 2026 and close on 5 August 2026.
Read How to apply to check what you need to provide in your application.
Please email your completed application form and all required documentation to: DOH.OrganisationalDevelopment@health.wa.gov.au
If your application is suitable you will be asked to attend an individual interview at our East Perth offices and complete a small activity in preparation.
Success story
Meet Ashleigh
Show moreWork Health and Safety, Corporate Services
Started SBT program: February 2023 at 16 years old
What appealed to you about the School Based Traineeship Program?
The program appealed to me because it offered the opportunity to build my professional skills while still completing school, all while working towards a Certificate II in Government. I was particularly drawn to the practical, on‑the‑job experience, as it allowed me to learn in a real workplace environment and gain exposure to areas I hadn’t previously considered. It’s a great way to explore potential career pathways and set myself up with a strong foundation for the future.
Tell us about your journey with the department so far?
My journey as a school‑based trainee began within the Disaster Preparedness and Management Directorate, where I had the opportunity to work across both the Response Capability team and the Operational team. Spending time in each area gave me valuable exposure to different work environments – from the day‑to‑day office setting through to the more hands‑on logistics and deployment space. I enjoyed supporting my team and working together towards shared goals, while continuing to build new practical skills along the way. I make the most of the learning opportunities offered by the department, and with the support of my team, I’ve been able to steadily expand my working knowledge and confidence in the role.
How did the School Based Traineeship Program set you up for success in your career?
The school‑based traineeship program set me up for success by allowing me to complete Year 12 while gaining practical workplace experience and achieving a Certificate II in Government. Because of the hands‑on experience I gained within the Disaster Preparedness and Management team, I was able to transition into a full‑time position within the Work Health and Safety team, where I’ve continued to expand my knowledge and explore new career pathways. The program has genuinely opened doors for me and provided a clear pathway into meaningful, ongoing work.
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