Engineering possibilities through impactful work at Telstra

Meet Kavitha, a Software Engineer who is currently working with cloud-based technologies and automation testing solutions that improve the effectiveness of Telstra’s testing procedures and expedited workflows. Read first-hand about Kavitha’s experience working at Telstra.

Kavitha Waduge · 10 October 2025 · 6 minute read

At Telstra, I’ve experienced a strong sense of autonomy in my daily tasks and projects. I’m trusted to take ownership of my work, from planning and execution to delivery, which gives me the flexibility to manage my time and approach challenges in ways that best suit my working style. This level of independence has not only boosted my confidence but also enhanced my problem-solving and decision-making skills. I feel empowered to experiment, learn from mistakes, and continuously improve. Support is always available when needed, but the freedom to lead initiatives and contribute meaningfully makes my work more fulfilling and engaging.

What I love most about working at Telstra is the sense of purpose and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. I also appreciate the continuous learning and growth opportunities, which help me develop both personally and professionally.

Empowered to lead my own career:

Telstra supports my professional growth through continuous learning opportunities, mentorship, and access to programs like Persistence University and Telstra’s internal Future Ready program.

Telstra's focus on growth, innovation, and inclusivity drives me to contribute and make a difference every day. Knowing that I’m part of an organisation that makes such a significant impact motivates me to come to work, feeling that my efforts contribute to something truly important.

An example of when I was empowered to lead was during an end-to-end testing capability within Charging and Payments, I was given the responsibility to plan and execute the entire process, from identifying test scenarios to executing the tests. This helped me build confidence and expand my network by connecting with different team members working on various aspects of the same capability across the business. The experience taught me the importance of communication and collaboration in achieving project goals. It also highlighted the value of taking initiative and being proactive in problem-solving.

I was also fortunate to be given the opportunity to upskill through Persistence University using the Udemy license, focusing on automation testing and agile methodologies. This not only improved the quality and efficiency of my work but also gave me the opportunity to take on a more complex testing role and realise my full potential.

These continuous learning opportunities have boosted my confidence, enhanced my technical and soft skills, and helped me bring more value to my role.

Impactful work with purpose:

Working with the latest technology at Telstra makes me feel excited and motivated, as it allows me to stay ahead of industry trends and continually develop my skills. It also gives me the chance to work on impactful projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible, which keeps my work both engaging and meaningful.

One impactful project I worked on at Telstra involved end-to-end testing for non-digital customer services, including paper bills, A3 formats, and Braille. My role was to ensure these services met accessibility standards and provided a seamless experience for elderly and disabled customers. Through this project, I gained a deep understanding of the challenges faced by these customers, which gave me a sense of importance in my work. It was fulfilling to contribute to creating more inclusive solutions that positively impacted a vulnerable customer group.

I am now currently working with Telstra using cloud-based technologies and automation testing solutions that improve the effectiveness of our testing procedures and expedite workflows. These technologies enable faster, more reliable delivery of services and ensure high-quality products for our customers. By integrating these tools, we’re able to scale operations more effectively and deliver seamless experiences.

Considering a Career in Tech?

To anyone including women looking for a career in tech, I say go for it! The tech industry offers endless opportunities for growth, innovation, and making a real impact. Don’t be intimidated by any challenges you might face. Embrace them as chances to learn and prove your abilities. Surround yourself with a supportive network, keep pushing yourself to learn new skills, and never underestimate the value you bring to the table. We need more diverse voices in tech, and your unique perspective can make a big difference.

Telstra is a company that values innovation, continuous learning, and inclusivity, offering opportunities to work on cutting-edge technologies and contribute to meaningful projects. Whether you’re interested in technical roles or more customer-focused positions, there’s always room for growth and the chance to make a real impact. You’ll be supported by a diverse and collaborative team, and you’ll have the opportunity to develop both professionally and personally. It’s a place where your ideas are valued, and your work truly matters.

Curious about a career at Telstra? Learn more on our careers website.

By Kavitha Waduge

Software Engineer

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