Before you apply for a position, find out as much as possible about the position and our department to gain a broad understanding of what is required and whether you are right for the role.
This is your opportunity to tell us who you are, outline your skills and strengths, and tell us about your knowledge and experience relevant to the role you are applying for.
The application requirements are set out within the role profile, and usually includes the requirement to submit a cover letter and resume. Make sure you check any specific instructions for how to apply for the role in the ‘How to apply’ section of the role profile.
In your cover letter, tell us who you are, your knowledge, skills, experience and qualifications, and why you are interested in the role.
The cover letter is generally one to two pages. You could structure it using a combination of short paragraphs and dot points. Many applicants find that the STAR method works well as it ensures that full information is captured allowing the panel to assess your application based on your abilities and input.
Please don’t restate your resume as this is provided with your application. You also don’t need to respond to each of the competencies outlined in the ‘How you will you be assessed for this role?’ section.
Your resume should be concise and easy to read. Aim for 3 to 5 pages, depending on how long you have been in the workforce. Tailor your resume to the role you are applying for and include only relevant information. Outline your:
Some positions in the department, particularly ‘identified positions’ (i.e. only available to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples), require one of your referees to be an Aboriginal person and/or a Torres Strait Islander person who can attest to your background, knowledge, skills and experience as they relate to the cultural capabilities.
We prefer you to apply online through the Smart jobs and careers website using the ‘Apply online’ function. You will need to create a 'My SmartJob' account to do this.
You can track your application through the process, maintain your personal details through registration and withdraw your application if required.
If you experience technical difficulties when submitting your application through the Smart jobs and careers website, contact 13 QGOV (13 74 68).
If you are unable to apply online, talk to us in advance of the application closing date to arrange an alternative. Speak to the person listed in the role profile.
We may accept your application after the application closing date, but you will need approval. Speak to the contact person listed in the role profile about how to do this.
You can withdraw your application:
The selection process is how we assess your merit for the role, considering your:
To assess your merit, a selection panel consisting of two or more people will review your application against the requirements in the ‘How you will you be assessed for this role?’ section of the role profile and decide whether your application is shortlisted (i.e. you proceed to the interview / assessment stage).
If your application is shortlisted, we will contact you to let you know and explain the next stage of the selection process. This may include a number of assessment methods such as:
The interview is a conversation between you and the selection panel. It is your opportunity to have a discussion about the role, and talk about your skills, qualifications and strengths.
The best way to prepare is:
The conversation with the selection panel will relate to the requirements in the ‘How you will you be assessed for this role?’ section of the role profile.
For this conversation:
You will have a chance to ask questions and provide any information not covered during the interview.
We may choose to contact your referees to verify information you provide in your application and interview/assessment. Make sure you let your referees know this, so they can be prepared.
Successful applicants will be subject to a criminal history check relevant to their role. This may include a blue card screening for roles that work with children or a disability worker screening check if your role delivers disability supports or services.
The selection panel will advise all shortlisted applicants of the outcome. If you are successful and offered the position, your Manager will discuss your start date with you.
All applicants will be advised of the outcome in writing.
All applicants can ask for feedback about their application, which may help for future applications. Contact the person listed on the role profile if you would like feedback.
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