Selection process
The process
The department selects its staff using a fair and competitive merit-based process. This involves looking at the suitability of each person against the selection criteria created for every position advertised.
The department endeavours to assess each application quickly and thoroughly. To check on the progress of your application, you can speak with the contact officer for the vacancy.
In all selection processes, the department aims to treat all applicants in a fair and non-discriminatory manner. Applicants may wish to specify any special requirements they have in relation to the selection process—such as mobility assistance, interpretation or signing for hearing impaired candidates.
For each job advertised, the department appoints a selection panel. The panel reviews the written applications against the selection criteria. Following this, the panel will decide on the need to further assess applicants through an interview or other assessment technique, and whether or not to follow up with referees.
Written application
Your written application is the first impression that the selection panel has of you. It is important to make sure your application contains all the important information the committee needs to make its first assessment.
For advice on how to write your written application, we suggest that you refer to this publication from the Australian Public Service Commission:
In assessing your written application, the department considers:
- your responses to the individual selection criteria
- your statement of claims (within the word limit), which should include examples of your experience and achievements that relate to the criteria and the role requirements
- your CV or resume, including a detailed summary of your work experience and skills.
It is important that you read the job information pack for the position you are applying for to find out what is required in your written application.
The department prefers that you submit your application through the department's online recruitment system. Once you have submitted your application you can no longer edit it, so please make sure you are satisfied with your application before submitting it.
If you experience difficulties submitting your applications please email recruitment@dbcde.gov.au or phone 02 6271 7122 before the closing date.
All applications sent by post, email or otherwise delivered to the department as hard copy must include this cover sheet:
Applicant information sheet (105 KB)
Please submit applications by the closing time and date shown on the department's website. Selection panels are not obliged to accept late applications. If you are not able to lodge your full application by the closing date, you should discuss your circumstances with the contact officer.
The online system
The department uses an online recruitment system to advertise vacancies and facilitate the submission and assessment of job applications.
How it works
The system allows applicants to:
- search for vacancies
- access and read position descriptions and selection criteria
- apply for vacancies online
- register for job alerts
- access previous applications.
How to apply
If you are registering with the department for the first time:
- Click on 'start new application' and then follow the prompts.
- The system will ask you to enter your full name, email address and desired password. The system will then assign you a logon ID, which you should retain along with your password.
Your logon ID and password allow you to access your application at any time throughout the process, make changes to registration details once you have submitted an application, access applications you have submitted earlier and apply for new jobs listed with the department.
If you have already registered with the department's system and have a logon ID and password you must click on 'access existing application' to apply for a new job.
If you have forgotten your logon ID and password, the system will ask you to enter your email address and will then email your logon ID and password to you.
Who sees my application?
The following people can view your application:
- you
- the selection panel responsible for assessing your application
- the delegate (the manager who has the authority to approve selection decisions)
- the recruitment team that administers recruitment for the department.
Privacy and security
The department recognises and respects your privacy and is bound by the Information Privacy Principles set out in the Privacy Act 1988. By submitting a job application you consent to our collection, use and disclosure of your personal information as described below.
Additional information is available in the department's privacy statement or from the Office of the Privacy Commissioner.
We collect information from you directly when you complete the online application. We may also collect information from:
- you, directly at other stages during the selection process
- any competency test you sit during the selection process
- your referees.
This information is used for the purpose of selecting a person to fill the advertised position and in some cases to create an order of merit to fill positions similar to the advertised position. Your contact information is retained on the system to allow you to easily use the system in the future. It remains there for your own reference and you will need to start a new submission for any future job application you may decide to make.
Further assistance
Please contact the Recruitment Manager at recruitment@dbcde.gov.au if you have any questions regarding the system.
