Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Canberra is part of the global network of United Nations Information Centres (UNICs). Established to promote public understanding and support for the aims and activities of the United Nations, UNIC Canberra serves as the principal source of information about the UN system in Australia and several Pacific nations including Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. The organization aims to engage local and regional partners, effectively communicating the work of the UN to local audiences in their languages, thereby bringing the United Nations closer to the peoples it serves. UNIC Canberra operates within the Information Centres Service (ICS) of the Department of Global Communications (DGC).

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at UNIC Canberra is designed for individuals who are eager to gain practical experience in a dynamic international organization. The selected intern will work part-time, two days a week, totaling 14 hours, under the supervision of the National Information Officer and other office staff. The internship is unpaid and is expected to last for six months, aligning with an academic semester. Interns will have the opportunity to assist in various projects, including planning and delivering activities related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), developing interactive tools, and creating content for social media and communication products. This role is ideal for students or recent graduates looking to enhance their skills in communication, research, and public engagement within a global context.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the mission of UNIC Canberra. These include assisting with the planning and delivery of a 2026 SDG-themed activity in collaboration with academic partners, developing interactive tools that highlight the UN's work in the Pacific region, and creating content for videos and social media posts. The intern will also conduct analysis of social media metrics, produce communication products such as website content and presentations, and conduct research while compiling information and coordinating logistics for events. Additional responsibilities include assisting with public inquiries, preparing for high-level visits and speaking engagements, compiling and analyzing data for office reports, attending meetings, and drafting summaries. The intern may also be required to perform other tasks as necessary to support the office's operations.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must meet specific educational criteria. They should either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) or be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent). Additionally, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, including Microsoft Office 365 and Google programs. A strong ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds is essential, showcasing a willingness to understand and tolerate differing opinions and views. No prior work experience is required, but relevant training, education, or skills that can benefit the United Nations during the internship are encouraged.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in or have completed a Master’s or Ph.D. program. This educational background is crucial as it ensures that interns possess the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the UN's mission during their internship.

Experience:
No prior work experience is required for this internship position. However, candidates should possess relevant training, education, or skills that can be beneficial to the United Nations during their internship. This allows for a diverse range of applicants, including those who may have limited professional experience but are eager to learn and contribute.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. While French is also a working language, proficiency in English is mandatory for effective communication within the organization. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not a requirement for this position.

Additional Notes:
The internship is part-time and unpaid, with a duration of six months, depending on the intern's availability and the needs of the department. Interns are expected to work two days a week, totaling 14 hours. It is important to note that interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Additionally, candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of Australia may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.