Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Development Program start?

Our Development Program has a rolling intake, and we bring new team members on board throughout the year. To join, you’ll need to be in your final semester of study or have already completed your degree. We don’t have a mass start date at the end of the year, instead we organise personalised start dates that work best for you and our business.
 

How long is the program?

The Mainfreight Development Program runs for three years and is very self-driven. There are no fixed pathways or set rotations. Instead, you’ll step into real roles with real responsibility from day one, contributing directly to the business and learning how everything fits together.

With our ‘Promote from within’ philosophy, you can expect to:

• Learn the fundamentals of how our business works and why
• Join in the operations handling freight, getting your hands dirty
• Experience our unique culture and get to know our people

As opportunities arise, you’ll move into new roles (for example customer service) where you will get to learn more and develop further personal and professional tools. Where you want to go and what you want to do is up to you. Whether that be with sales, operations, IT, or a leadership role, it’s up to you to build your brand and make yourself stand out at Mainfreight.
 

Are there international opportunities available?

The answer is yes! As our business continues to grow across different countries, we’re always developing people who can contribute to that future. With our philosophy of promoting from within, the team members who start with us today often become the leaders who help shape our operations abroad.

Because we grow our people from the ground up, you can expect a steep learning curve and plenty of chances to show what you’re capable of. Over time, as you build strong performance, deep knowledge, and a real understanding of our culture, you may be considered for opportunities to work in our teams overseas.
 

Can I do my CPA at Mainfreight?

As we have an unstructured program where you start out within our core business units, we cannot guarantee an opportunity in our finance teams.  Because of this, we cannot offer a CPA supported program.
 

What formal development opportunities are available as part of the program?

As part of the Mainfreight family, you’ll be learning on the job every day, building both personal and professional skills from real experience. We’re committed to growing our own people and promoting from within, so development is a core part of your journey with us.

Alongside hands on learning, you’ll also have access to structured training delivered by our dedicated Training & Development team. These sessions run throughout the year in major cities and are designed to deepen your understanding of our business, strengthen your leadership skills, and support your long-term career growth. 
 

Will I have to relocate?

If you are successful in your application for the Mainfreight Development Program, you will start out in a branch close to home possible. We understand the transition from study to full time work can be challenging enough, without relocating! 
 

Do I have a choice in where I will be placed?

We have team members in the Development Program working across operations throughout the country. Your placement will depend on the opportunities available at the time you apply.
If you have a preferred location, you’re welcome to let us know and we’ll do our best to support that preference wherever possible.
 

How many team members do you take on each year?

We do things a bit differently, instead of fixed annual intakes, we bring new people into the Development Program whenever opportunities arise and when we meet individuals who are the right fit for our team. 
Our business is continually growing, which means we’re always looking for motivated people who can help shape our future.

For us, it’s about finding the right fit - not meeting a set number.

What do you look for in a new team member?

We look for curious, well rounded people who aren’t afraid to get stuck in, who show ambition, and have the potential to lead others.

Your academic record matters, but it’s only one part of who you are. We’re just as interested in how you’ve lived your life so far - how you’ve balanced study, work, sport, community, travel, or your passions. If you’re self driven, eager to learn, and comfortable taking on challenges, there’s a good chance you’ll thrive in the Mainfreight culture.

What does the typical Mainfreight Development Program look like?

There’s no such thing as a “typical” Mainfreight Development Program and that’s what makes it exciting. Rather than moving through fixed-term rotations, you’ll step into areas of the business where you’re most needed and where your strengths can shine.

You’ll begin on the operations floor, learning how our business works from the ground up. Once you’ve built a strong foundation, you’ll have the opportunity to explore different parts of the business, gaining experience across a variety of teams and responsibilities.

With guidance from senior leaders and mentors, you’ll play an active role in shaping your own career path. If you discover an area you’re passionate about, we’ll support you in building the skills and knowledge you need to thrive.

Career progression at Mainfreight isn’t tied to the end of the program; it happens as you earn it. Your initiative, attitude, and hard work will open doors as soon as you’re ready.
Our team members grow into careers across a wide range of areas, including operations, sales, customer service, administration, IT, training & development, and more.