Students and Graduates Economic and Policy Summer Intern Program
Get real-world experience at Australia's central bank. Our paid, eight-week summer internship is for high-achieving economics students in their second-last year of study, planning to pursue honours or other research programs in 2026. We’re looking for academic excellence and a passion for shaping Australia’s economic future.
Our Economic and Policy Summer Intern Program offers a supportive environment and a chance to experience working at Australia’s central bank. It's a full-time, paid, eight-week placement based at our Chifley Square office, starting early December. Interns from across the country join the program and start together, with plenty of time to connect through induction and group training. Throughout the placement, you'll have meaningful work which could include drafting notes on economic data, analysing financial markets, and gaining hands-on exposure to the work of RBA economists. You’ll also attend targeted training and interactive sessions to build your understanding of the RBA's role in the economy. We support interstate and regional interns with paid accommodation for the duration and return flights.
At the end of the program, selected interns will receive offers for our 2027 Graduate Development Program, including financial support for their final year of study.
Eligibility criteria
We are looking for students who are passionate about public policy work and have an interest in undertaking a policy research project.
- Third year (or equivalent) students majoring in economics or econometrics who intend to complete honours or similar research programs.
- Willingness to participate in an 8 week Monday to Friday full time program, the RBA does not shut down during the Christmas period, except for public holidays.
- Australian permanent residency or citizenship is required.
All of our opportunities are located in Sydney.
Key dates
- Applications open: 1 July 2025
- Applications close: 4 August 2025
- Internship Program: December 2025 – February 2026
The Bank reviews applications as it receives them and may invite suitably strong candidates to undertake assessments immediately.
Application and selection process
Looking to be more and secure a fantastic opportunity with us? View some of the more frequently asked questions and answers about the application and selection process.
Can't find what you are looking for? Contact our intern program team.
Embrace life
Life at the RBA
Work-life balance is important to us, and we understand the contribution that staff wellbeing makes to performance. Employees are rewarded with access to flexible work arrangements, as well as health and wellbeing programs.
Our graduate programs
Economics and Policy
Launch your career through our industry-recognised program – a great opportunity for emerging economists and financial analysts interested in making a difference to the lives of all Australians.
Information Technology
Graduates with technical and non-technical skills are well-suited to IT roles at the RBA. We offer outstanding opportunities to work hands-on with leading-edge technologies within industry-aligned frameworks.
Payments Settlements
Graduates have a unique opportunity to work in our Payments Settlements Department, which is responsible for operating critical infrastructure that supports the Australian payments system, including the Fast Settlement Service, which provides real-time settlement for payments made using the New Payments Platform.
Job search
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The Reserve Bank of Australia is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage applications from experienced candidates seeking workplace flexibility.
