Applicant Guide

This information will assist you with practical advice regarding the preparation of your application for employment. Please read these notes carefully as they are designed to help.

It is important that you carefully read the Position Information Package as it outlines the key responsibilities and requirements for the position as well as the essential and desirable selection criteria.

The Position Information Package will also provide you with other information such as; salary, selection criteria, period of employment and employment status.

If you have read the Position Information Package and you have further questions, applicants are encouraged to call the advertised contact officer.  The vacancy contact is usually a specialist and will be able to provide you with greater insight into the role.

To maximise your chance of obtaining an interview for the position your application must include the following:

  • A brief covering letter, (typed).
  • A statement of claims against the essential and desirable selection criteria
  • A resume detailing your relevant employment, education and training history.
  • Copies of any relevant qualifications (such as certificates and licences). Please do not attach original documents.

Application and Selection Criteria

Be sure you read the advertisement, position description and selection criteria thoroughly. Addressing the selection criteria is an important part of your application. To maximise your chance of obtaining an interview you must explain how you meet each of the essential and desirable selection criteria. Remember applications are assessed against the selection criteria using only the information supplied by you.

The best way to set out your 'Statement of Criteria' is to make a separate heading for each selection criteria and then clearly describe how you meet them through your qualifications, knowledge, skills, abilities and relevant work experience, by providing demonstrated examples. Do not simply state that you meet the selection criteria.

Here are some helpful tips:

  • Proofread your application carefully
  • Make sure all criteria is addressed.
  • Include the position title and vacancy reference number on your covering letter
  • Ensure your contact details are correct and provide two telephone numbers.
  • Submit the application prior to the advertised closing date/time.
  • Ensure your referees are aware that you are referring to them in your application.
  • Do not include originals of certificates or references.  Applications will not be returned to you.

Applications are short listed by our professional and experienced Human Resource Officers who support the organisation by assessing all applications on merit against our selection criteria.

The Interview

If you’re successful in gaining an interview you’ll be contacted by telephone and notified of the interview date to arrange a mutally convenient time.  If you’re serious about an application you should be prepared to be available for an interview when requested.

Interviews are held with a selection panel of two or more people who conduct the selection and interviewing process. The panel usually includes the Manager or Team Leader from the appropriate section, an independent (usually a Human Resource Professional) and possibly another person such as a technical expert who can contribute to the selection process based on their knowledge of the work area.

Here are some helpful tips:

  • Give some thought to the type of questions you might be asked and how you might respond
  • Bring originals of relevant licences and qualifications so they can be sighted by the panel
  • Don’t be late! First impressions count.
  • Relax and listen to the questions. Do not rush your answers and take your time
  • You’re responsible for classifying the strength of your skills, knowledge and experience

The panel assesses the interviews based on merit and comparative strengths and weaknesses demonstrated during the application and interview process. Applicants may also be requested to attend second interviews.

Following the Interview

The panel will proceed to the next stage of selection.

A number of techniques may be used to gather information in regard to your suitability for the position.  The main sources used for selection are your application, structured interview, referee reports and a medical health assessment.

Selected positions may require audiometric testing and/or may be required to provide medical evidence and vaccination records.

Further evaluation in the form of additional employment or skills testing may be utilised or required.  These may include:

  • Typing and Software Skills Test
  • Aptitude Tests
  • Driver/Plant Operator Screening
  • Work Samples
  • Psychological Assessment
  • Working with Children Check
  • Criminal History Checks
  • Work Right Status Check