News Australia has opened applications for its National Editorial Cadet Program, reaffirming its commitment to investing in the next generation of journalists who will inform, connect and serve communities across the country.
Thirty positions are available across News Australia’s network of Australia’s most recognised mastheads, including The Australian, The Daily Telegraph, Herald Sun, The Courier-Mail, The Advertiser and news.com.au.
As the nation’s leading publisher of news and information reaching more than 18 million Australians every month, News Australia offers cadets an unmatched platform to begin their careers. The 12-month paid program grounds cadets in the fundamentals of reporting while preparing them to master the new techniques and technologies shaping the future of media.
The program features:
A two-week immersive induction into national newsrooms, editorial purpose and the fundamentals of journalism
Hands-on experience writing breaking news stories across digital, audio, social and print platforms
Rotational placements across at least four newsrooms, including regional and metropolitan mastheads
Dedicated mentorship from experienced journalists throughout the program
Professional development through specialised masterclasses including investigative techniques, legal training and AI tools
The Courier-Mail editor Chris Jones began his career as a cadet at the masthead 27 years ago. He said: “Our purpose is to tell the stories that matter and that requires investment in the journalists who will tell them. This program gives cadets the foundations, the mentorship and the real-world experience to tell stories that make a difference to their communities.”
Cadet positions are available in newsrooms across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Darwin, Hobart, Cairns, Townsville, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba, Gold Coast and Geelong.
Applications for the National Editorial Cadet Program close on Friday July 31, 2026.
