Building future talent through local government internships

Local governments across WA are encouraged to host a skilled and motivated UWA student intern through the McCusker Centre for Citizenship in semester 2.

Through our strategic partnership with Local Government Professionals WA, almost 300 UWA students have undertaken internships with local governments, contributing fresh perspectives and up-to-date skills while gaining valuable insight into careers in the sector.

The Centre is currently accepting roles for semester 2 internships (20 July - 9 October 2026) with students contributing approximately one day per week (100 hours total) - providing consistent, project-based support over the semester.

The Centre has already received 500 internship applications, with students bringing skills in research, IT, data analytics, communications, policy and stakeholder engagement. This is an excellent opportunity to progress priority projects and access in-demand capabilities within your team.

A recent example is UWA Master of Business Analytics student Barun Chhetri, who completed his internship with the City of Canning.

During his placement, Barun supported the Cannington District Leadership Group, a collaboration of local governments, state agencies and community organisations.

His supervisor, Director Community and Place Garry Fisher, highlighted the impact of his work:

"Barun engaged directly with the sector and brought together a strategy that the whole leadership group could agree on. It was very impactful."

Barun reflected that the experience deepened his understanding of how effective coordination enables local governments to respond to complex community needs.

Hosting an intern is an opportunity to progress priority projects, bring new perspectives into your organisation, and support the development of future local government professionals.

Find out more - contact [email protected] or 6488 1690.