Application process
Submit your application by the specified closing date.
Tips for a successful application
- Reach out to the nominated contact officer for detailed information about the position.
- Familiarise yourself with AFSA's activities through our website.
- Use specific language in your application, such as "I formatted and edited the newsletter," instead of generic terms like "we produced a newsletter."
- Ensure your name, position reference number, and page number are included on each page.
- Ask someone else to review your responses for clarity, spelling and grammar.
For additional guidance and tips on applying for jobs in the Australian Public Service, visit the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) guide Cracking the code.
Selection process
At AFSA, we adhere to the APS Merit Principle, ensuring fairness and impartiality in our selection processes. Our selection process may involve:
- Written application/statement of claims (cover letter)
- Shortlisting
- Interview
- Additional selection tools like work sample tests
- Reference checks
- Offers, merit pools and feedback.
Essential capabilities
Your application will be evaluated using the APS Work Level Standard characteristics outlined in the selection document. Review the document carefully and tailor your responses accordingly.
Eligibility
To qualify for employment at AFSA, you must:
- Be an Australian citizen
- Successfully pass a police record check
- Obtain and maintain a security clearance at the required level
- Fulfill any probationary period requirements.
Submitting your application
All applications must be submitted online through the AFSA careers portal. Your application should include:
- Resume and statement of claims (cover letter) addressing the skills, capabilities, required qualifications, accreditations, and experience specified in the role description.
- Contact details for two referees, with one being your current or most recent manager.
- Evidence of education/qualifications (if applicable).
Late applications
Late applications may be considered only under exceptional circumstances. Applicants needing an extension must contact the designated Contact Officer at least 24 hours before the vacancy closing date (Monday to Friday).
Applying for the right job
Take the time to research and plan your application to effectively highlight your skills, experience, training and suitability for the job. Specific qualifications and experience required for certain positions will be clearly outlined in the position description.
When submitting your application for positions within a bulk round, it is recommended that you use the APS Work Level Standards to assist in determining the appropriate level for your application.
Privacy
During the selection process, your personal information may be shared with third parties for assessment purposes. Successful candidates may also have their data shared within AFSA or other Commonwealth departments for similar vacancies.
Recruitment process
Our merit-based selection process focuses on assessing candidates' suitability through a competitive evaluation of the skills, experience, knowledge and attributes required for the role.
What to expect
A dedicated selection panel will oversee the process, which typically includes reviewing applications, shortlisting candidates, conducting assessments (interviews, work sample tests), contacting referees, finalising selections, and extending job offers to successful candidates.
Reasonable adjustments
If you require accommodations, such as alternate formats or assistance, to participate in the recruitment process, please inform us when completing the application form or contact the designated officer.
RecruitAbility
AFSA participates in the APSC RecruitAbility scheme.