The next day, the 24-year-old was emailed a letter that said: ''The department has made the preliminary decision to terminate your employment … on the grounds that you are now excess to requirements.''

Ms Smith, who is studying for law and arts degrees at the University of Wollongong, said the wording ''makes you sound like cattle''.

''It's a bit blunt, a bit harsh,'' she said.

The letter offers those excess to requirements the opportunity to appeal before the final decision concerning termination of employment is made.

''I could go into some legal argument but I will rely on the human side of it,'' Ms Smith said. ''We are young people about to graduate and it was a massive relief after five years of study to find employment. Then they turn around and pull the rug out. It's a bit of a kick in the guts. I don't think they will change their minds but I would like to get some acknowledgment of the distress this has caused.''