Fonterra Australia builds a significant part of the global Fonterra Co-op with around 1,600 employees across the country.
Our head office is in Richmond, Melbourne, but we also have eight manufacturing sites across Victoria and Tasmania and sales offices in Sydney, Adelaide, Perth and Brisbane. With this vast network of offices and sites, Fonterra provides diverse career opportunities.
Through our three sales channels we sell leading brands like Western Star, Perfect Italiano and Mainland to over 100 markets worldwide.
Why become a graduate at Fonterra?
Here at Fonterra we truly believe we can develop future thought leaders by providing them the best experience at the beginning of their careers.
To support this, we’re offering a graduate program here in Australia – a unique, challenging and exciting experience in an environment where your contribution and ideas are welcomed.
Global Careers
With 22,000 employees globally, Australia is renown as a breeding ground for strong talent. Within our business, we have people who have moved across the global network providing in-depth knowledge.
Growth & Development
Fonterra offers a strong focus on development and provides opportunities for growth through a tailored development plan, mentoring, engaging with industry experts, and an 18-month training plan.
Industry Experts
We have thought leaders across each of the industries we operate in (dairy, FMCG, ingredients, manufacturing, and business-to-business) and you can learn from those experts.
Who can apply?
Final year of undergraduate studies or within 2 years of graduating.
Credit average of 65 or higher.
Australian or NZ resident or citizen.
Who are we looking for?
We have a clear vision of our future and we know that we need the right people in the business to take us there. That's why we're looking for the next generation of leaders. Instead of specific degrees from particular disciplines, we're looking for fresh thinkers, graduates who are passionate, innovative, and enjoy working collaboratively.
Future leaders who can help us become the world's best dairy company and, in doing so, help us grow a better world. It's a big ambition and the reason we need talent like you. If you can demonstrate customer focus, want to actively develop and grow your skills, value difference, can drive vision and purpose, and are self-aware, then look no further and join our Fonterra family.
Our programs
We recognise that the success of our company depends on our people, and we are committed to developing our talents and providing the best opportunities to our people to help boost their careers.
With a constant focus on innovation and improvement, we are always challenging boundaries and finding new ways of working.
What can you expect?
During our 18-month program you will be provided with plenty of support along the way. The diversity of what we do creates numerous opportunities for a rewarding and challenging start to your career.
- Access to a company induction, 18-month learning calendar and a tailored development plan.
- Engage with our industry experts, be mentored by senior management and coached by your rotation supervisors.
- Work on real projects to develop your skills and lift your career.
- You will be hired into a permanent role, and have the opportunity to become an expert in your field.
Journey of a Graduate
You will be adding value as a full-time employee from day one, doing real work and delivering real results.
You will be hired into a function and have the opportunity to become an expert in that field.
We are focused on your training and afford you the time to improve these capabilities, whilst providing a challenging and fast-paced work environment.
Throughout the 18-month program, we will ensure you are set up to succeed.
Meet our past and current graduates
Finance Analyst – Milk Supply
“Fonterra is a great and supportive company with amazing facilities, great people and is at the heart of an extremely interesting and complex industry. Succeeding in becoming a Fonterra Graduate has been extremely rewarding and I have learned so much already. As a Commercial Graduate I have worked closely with my team to complete standard routine work, learning new programs, systems and putting years of study into practice. Fonterra also have been supportive in providing different programs that have allowed me to learn more about the industry and the company from broader level.”
2021 Sales & Marketing Graduate
“My advice for future applicants is to be brave and honest throughout the application process, be proud to show off your education achievements and life experience to really showcase who you are as an individual. Ensure you have some relevant knowledge to the area you’re applying for, but don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.”
Category Specialist - Procurement
“I was attracted to the graduate program specifically, as I had the opportunity to rotate within my chosen stream over a 2-year period which appealed as I was unsure exactly what specific function would best suit me coming out of University. Being rotated across teams would allow for me to better establish professional connections and gain a more holistic appreciation and understanding of Fonterra as a business whilst being challenged intellectually with the varying responsibilities.”