News Corp Australia has announced the commencement of applications for its National Editorial Cadet Program, offering a unique opportunity for 30 aspiring journalists to gain experience in some of Australia's most recognised news brands. The 12-month paid cadetship will provide the selected candidates with the chance to work with brands such as The Australian, The Daily Telegraph, Herald Sun, The Courier-Mail, The Advertiser, and news.com.au.

The move comes despite an ongoing $65 million redundancy program.

The cadets will have the opportunity to work in at least four different newsrooms during the year, mentored by a senior journalist. They will also undertake regular masterclasses and training workshops, equipping them with the skills needed for the evolving landscape of journalism.

"This is a unique opportunity to be part of the generation that shapes the future of journalism. We are offering the chance to learn and work across Australia's most diverse family of journalism brands. We will offer training in journalism's core skills as well as provide the opportunity to learn the new techniques and technologies that are part of journalism's future," said Mick Carroll, News Corp Australia’s Free News & Lifestyle Editor-In-Chief.

The most recent group of 27 cadets are set to graduate later this month, with all being offered roles within News' newsrooms around the country. The next cadet program will run from November 4, 2024, to October 18, 2025.

Michelle Gunn, The Australian’s Editor-In-Chief, highlighted the diverse skill set that the cadets will have the opportunity to develop. "News Corp Australia's cadets have the opportunity to work in every facet of journalism, from grassroots community reporting to specialist areas of interest. Stories are no longer confined to one format or traditional rules. We need the skills and innovation to produce first-class multimedia storytelling. Audio, video, data visualisation, graphics - each has a role to play in building on the power of our written words."