Defence industry hosts must offer diverse and collaborative workplaces and cultures, aligned to the principles adopted by Defence. The DIIP is committed to attracting students and organisations with staff from recognised underrepresented groups to participate in the internship program. 

The DIIP program operates from the perspective that diversity fuels innovation, enriches organisations, and strengthens our community. The DIIP is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all interns, regardless of background, culture, gender, ability, or life experience can thrive and contribute meaningfully.

Applications for the DIIP are encouraged from historically underrepresented groups including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse people, regional and remote students, LGBTQIA+, and people with a disability.

The DIIP is dedicated to building a future workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and needs to partner with defence industry hosts in this quest.

To support diversity and inclusion, the DIIP Selection team will make necessary adjustments to the recruitment process, also providing a broad range of supports to both interns and defence industry hosts to ensure that students from a range of backgrounds and abilities are fully supported within the program.