Important information: Changes to the job application process
The Department of Human Services is making important changes to how you apply for jobs. In order to offer a more streamlined process, you will generally no longer required to address each of the key selection criteria separately in a written document.
From 1 October 2009 when you apply for roles with the Department of Human Services you will generally be required to submit:
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An on-line application form (you will be prompted to complete this when applying on line). When applying on-line you may be prompted to upload your responses to the key selection criteria in a separate document as this is a whole of government website. You are NO LONGER required to do this for roles at the Department of Human Services.
OR, a 'Hard Copy Application for Employment' [Word, 161kb] form is required if applying by post. -
A cover letter
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An updated resume
Some roles (such as entry level child protection) have specific application requirements. It is important that you read the job advert carefully as you may need to submit written statements against key selection criteria for these roles.
Application form
The purpose of the application form is to collect important information about you such as your name, address and eligibility to work for the Victorian Government. There are two ways in which you can submit an application form:
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On-line (preferred option) - you will be prompted to complete an application form when you begin the on-line application process.
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Post - you will be required to fill out a 'Hard Copy Application for Employment' [Word, 161kb] form.
Cover letter
The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself to the selection panel and highlight how key aspects of your knowledge, skills and work experience can meet the requirements of the role. A cover letter should:
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Outline your suitablity for the job
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Succinctly outline your claims, by way of achievement and results (bearing in mind the key requirements of the role)
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Be no more than two pages
Resume
The purpose of your resume is to summarise your knowledge, skills, work experience and education/qualifications in an easy to read document. A resume should:
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Contain accurate, succinct and relevant information supporting your claims for the advertised job
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Include your personal details, work experience and qualifications
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Include contact details of two referees, including your current or most recent supervisor
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Be between 2-5 pages long
Useful links:
There are many different ways to structure your cover letter or format your resume. Further information and examples of cover letter and resume templates can be found at:
Frequently asked questions
1. What if the job I am applying for is advertised before 1 October but has a closing date after 1 October?
If the job has a closing date on or after 1 October you do not need to submit a separate document that individually addresses each of the key selection criteria.
2. How can I maximise my chances of being invited to interview without stating my strengths against key selection criteria?
Your cover letter will give you the opportunity to highlight how key aspects of your knowledge, skills and work experience meets the requirements of the role. You may also wish to tailor your resume to highlight key aspects of your experiences, achievements and education to focus on the key selection criteria required for the role.
3. Where can I obtain further information?
If you require specific job related information please refer to the contact details listed in the position description. If you have questions regarding the recruitment process in general, including the changes made to addressing key selection criteria, please contact a HR representative in your area.
4. How can my application be assessed if I haven’t separately addressed each individual key selection criteria?
The selection panel will be looking for evidence of the key selection criteria in your application form, cover letter and resume. The selection panel will assess the information contained in these documents to determine whether you will be short-listed for interview, initially focusing on knowledge and skills, specialist expertise and desirable/mandatory qualifications. Personal qualities will generally be assessed at interview and through reference checking for those candidates who progress to these stages.