FREE Selection Criteria: 210+ Interview Winners | Plus Loads More Tips on Job Preparation Strategies

FREE Selection Criteria Examples 210+ | Government & Tertiary Sector Roles

Thanks to all of you who return month-on-month; and a warm welcome to new visitors, I guarantee you will find this an invaluable resource. Over 210+ interview-winning selection criteria examples are showcased from various jobs/roles and levels (entry to senior executive). One-click access with all examples hyperlinked. 2024: Clinical Nurse, QLD Health ... 1 Dec 2024 STAR Model: Staff Training & Coaching … 18 Nov 2024 Supervisor, Building & Asset Services [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | Clinical Nurse, QLD Health

My client applied for the role of Clinical Nurse in one of Brisbane’s public hospitals under the QLD Department of Health (DoH). They progressed to the interview and were offered and accepted the role. Feedback from the selection panel rated their two-page statement – addressing six (6) selection criteria based on the DoH Values Framework – as excellent quality. One of the criteria is showcased. High Performance. On one night shift [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Staff Training & Coaching

Over the last six months, I have provided flow-walking support, coaching and training to new staff members. A recruit commenced in the most recent recruitment cycle; they were confused and frustrated using one of the main systems. They did not understand several of the system’s features/functions. My task involved supporting and instructing her to the point where she selected and used relevant features in the system to process customers’ debts accurately. [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Supervisor, Building & Asset Services

My client applied for the role of Supervisor, Building & Asset Services in State (QLD) Government. Their written application was ranked in the top 1% percentage of candidates. He was interviewed, offered the job and accepted. The application required a two-page statement in cover letter format with examples aligned with the Leadership Competencies for QLD (LC4Q) framework. Three (3) examples were prepared, one for each of the main competencies – Vision, [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Analysis & Problem Solving

Proven high-level capacity to analyse and resolve complex problems. I utilised advanced analytical and problem-solving skills when coordinating the review of data elements within the Australian XYZ Standard. Reviewing two critical data elements involved evaluating stakeholder proposals, researching the feasibility and practicality of proposals via multiple data sources, and formulating internal and external inquiries. I then gathered, collated and analysed the information to develop and recommend proposed solutions. A key challenge [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Child Protection Supervisor

My client applied for the role of Child Protection Supervisor in State (Vic) Government and progressed to the interview stage. A statement addressing 11 criteria in short paragraphs was prepared across three (3) pages. Two of the criteria are combined and showcased. Application of child development theories and legislation. In my current role as Team Leader (TL), Complex Case Management at XYZ, I applied early childhood complex trauma strategies and principles [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: WHS/OHS Legislative Knowledge

Current knowledge of legislative obligations around workplace/occupational health and safety and how these impact employment and service delivery. I have robust knowledge of and apply state (WA) legislation around health and safety in line with the Work Health and Safety Act 2020. This Act promotes a preventative approach to adverse incidents in the workplace environment that aims to facilitate individuals’ involvement in policy and implementation and a safe and healthy working [...]

Job Market Australia | #1 Tip to Help You Decide to Apply for Government Jobs

There are three (3) levels of Government in Australia: first level, Australian Public Service (APS), also known as Commonwealth or Federal; second level, State and Territory; and third level, Local which comprises individual Councils across all States and Territories. When jobs are advertised across the 3 levels, a contact person with their phone number(s) and email is listed. This is the person to contact to learn more about the role. There [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Executive Officer, Local Government

My client applied for the role of Executive Officer in Local Government and progressed to the interview stage. The written component required addressing six (6) essential and five (5) desirable criteria in three (3) pages. One of the criteria is showcased. Advanced interpersonal, negotiating and conflict resolution skills, including the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of people. I initiated, devised and recommended the implementation of a 12-week employee [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Strategic Team & Operational Leadership

Leading teams and operations in line with strategic direction in a strict procedural and regulatory environment. The XYZ Air Force operated an aircraft fleet named ZZZ Trainers maintained by BAE Systems. The section I supervised was tasked with converting and performing structural modifications to several aircraft in line with BAE procedures and the government's primary aim to bring production capabilities onshore. I took over the leadership and supervision of the team [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | APS Biosecurity Officer

My client applied for the role of Biosecurity Officer in the APS (Commonwealth/Federal) Government and progressed to the interview stage. The written component required addressing four (4) selection criteria with a limit of 300 words for each. An excerpt from one of the criteria is showcased. Describe your understanding of working in a regulatory role and some of the challenges this may present. Two of the biggest challenges I recently dealt [...]

Job Market Australia | Job Skills Shortage 2023 | Top 10 Jobs with Biggest Pay Rises

The Australian government department Job and Skills Australia published their recent 2023 Skills Priority List (SPL) Key Findings Report in September 2023. You can access the full report here. The skills shortage in Australia persists and is significant. Top 20 largest employing occupations in shortage in 2023 SPL: Aged or Disabled Carer Retail Manager Primary School Teacher Secondary School Teacher Truck Driver Electrician Child Care Worker Sales and Marketing Manager Carpenter [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Health Legislation Knowledge

Sound knowledge of legislation relevant to Hospital and Health Services (HHS) in Queensland. Since the implementation of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act), there has been a significant shift in the relationships between the Department of Health and HHS and their perspective roles and responsibilities. The Act introduced an integrated health system in which HHS were established as statutory bodies with direct responsibility for the provision of public [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Human Resource (HR) Advisor, WA Government

My client applied for the role of HR Advisor in state (WA) government and progressed to the interview stage. The written component required addressing four (4) selection criteria in two (2) pages. One of the criteria is showcased. Demonstrated application of contemporary human resources principles and practice. A situation occurred involving a front-line employee with poor grooming and hygiene who met with clients daily in person at their premises. This led [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Tender & Contract Management

Experience in processing tender bids and managing contracts. Across all my roles, I have managed the tender bidding process involving meticulous preparation of proposals encompassing financial and technical data, both quantitative and qualitative. At XYZ I prepared a large tender from scratch. This involved formulating the budget ($10M) for a key component, forecasting expected costs over a 24-month duration from over 50+ suppliers worldwide, factoring in delivery charges and currency exchange [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Customer Services Officer, Local Government

My client applied for the role of Customer Services Officer in the local government sector, a council in NSW. From a total of 60 applicants, six (6) were shortlisted for interviewing including my client. The written component required addressing seven (7) criteria in a two-page cover letter format. One of the criteria is showcased. Demonstrated experience in providing quality face-to-face customer service to meet customer service objectives and identify issues that [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Quality Auditing Processes

Understanding of quality auditing processes. I apply a thorough understanding of quality auditing processes in line with Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) 3 and 6, and Food Safety Program Verification and Records Standards (STD). As a qualified auditor, I conduct internal bi-annual audits of the hospital’s catering departments; I also attend bi-annual external audits. Internal audits take one day to conduct and a further day to document in a report. [...]

Job Market Australia | Job Skills Shortage Update 2023

The Australian government department Job and Skills Australia published their recent quarterly Labour Market Update Report. You can access the full report here. The skills shortage in Australia persists and is significant. Top 20 occupations in demand nationally for the October to December 2022 quarter: Registered Nurses Software and Applications Programmers Aged and Disabled Carers Child Carers Construction Managers Motor Mechanics Retail Managers Chefs Generalist Medical Practitioners Metal Fitters and Machinists [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Learning Support Assistant

My client applied for the role of Learning Support Assistant in the ACT Education sector and progressed to the interview stage. The application involved addressing selection criteria across two pages. One of the criteria is showcased. Knowledge of the educational, social and emotional needs of students with disability, complex needs and/or a trauma background. I have in-depth knowledge of the educational, social and emotional needs of students aged between three and [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Project Management

Substantial experience in project management with demonstrated knowledge and understanding of project management methodologies, principals and policies. During my tenure within the Department of AAA, I managed complex and challenging projects. I applied both PMBOK and PRINCE2 methodologies across the project lifecycle specifically customised for the department, including training systems and processes, policies and procedures. As the Project Manager on a recent project involving the procurement and rollout of a new [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Administrative Officer, WA Health

My client applied for the role of Administrative Officer in a state government department (WA Health), progressed to the interview stage, was offered and accepted the role. The application involved addressing selection criteria across three pages. An excerpt of one of the criteria is showcased. Working knowledge of health patient information systems. I am highly competent in using a variety of health patient information systems. In my current role, I use [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Accounting & Finance Legislation

Demonstrated ability to understand, interpret and apply standards, legislation, policy and guidelines in providing services to customers/stakeholders. I prepare financial statements in compliance with the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) and Australian Equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (AEIFRS). I regularly refer to the AASB 101; 116; 116 and 139. My auditing experience at NSW DEF solidified my knowledge of legislation (Public Finance Act 1983), accounting standards, and government risk management [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Project Officer, State Government

Technology and Systems: In a previous Project Support Officer role, I provided hands-on (technical) support during the implementation and rollout of new technology. I held discussions with the department’s information technology (IT) team regarding the creation of a database exchange website to collect annual funding schedules. Specifically, to transition and simplify the department’s existing manual process to one that was streamlined, fully automated and provided a centralised reporting system. I recommended [...]

New Selection Criteria Framework | Leadership Competencies for Queensland

For State (QLD) Government applications, the Leadership Competencies for Queensland (LCQ) is the new framework that has replaced the previous Capability Leadership Framework (CLF). The LCQ contains 3 competencies (Vision, Results, Accountability) across 5 streams or levels (Individual Contributor, Team Leader, Program Leader, Executive, Chief Executive). The LCQ is an adapted and more streamlined framework that incorporates CLF competencies. The 3 main competencies are broken down, categorised and described; and are [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Higher Education & VET Sectors

An understanding of the Higher Education and Vocational Education sectors in Australia. The Higher Education sector in Australia is made up of universities and other higher education institutions are often referred to as higher education providers. The national regulator for the higher education sector is the Tertiary Education Standards Agency (TEQSA). Its responsibilities include the registration and evaluation of the performance of higher education providers against the Higher Education Standards Framework. [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | APS Business Support Officer

My client applied for the role of Business Support Officer in APS Government and progressed to the interview stage. The application involved addressing four selection criteria. An excerpt of one of the criteria is showcased. Demonstrated ability to apply sound judgement, problem-solve, share information and influence management. I initiated and conducted an investigation – in the capacity of Service Coordinator at CAA – and found the underlying cause of a problem [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Team Management & Leadership

Describe how you used your management and leadership style to effectively motivate and manage staff. In my current role as Senior Manager within the NSW Department of XYZ, I reprioritised and allocated extra time in managing and motivating my team – three at individual level and five in a group setting – at end-of-month (EOM) to complete tasks against strict deadlines. Over the past three consecutive months, EOM deadlines were not [...]

Addressing Selection Criteria = Statement of Claims | Pitch | EOI – Keep Using STAR Model

Government departments across all levels – local (councils), state/territory, federal – are slowly and steadily moving away from asking applicants to prepare standard responses to individual selection criteria. Federal government departments/agencies are leading the way in this regard. They are stipulating word or page length limits; for example, 600-word Statement of Claims, one-page pitch, two-page Expression of Interest (EOI). They request a written response to demonstrate you meet the role requirements, [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Senior Public Trust Officer, QLD Government

My client applied for the role of Senior Public Trust Officer in State (QLD) Government and progressed to the interview stage. The application involved addressing five selection criteria on one page. One of the criteria is showcased. Supports productive working relationships I determined a new and inexperienced colleague was in need of additional training to enable them to perform at the required competency levels; three weeks had passed, their performance and [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Applying Finance Knowledge

I applied strong knowledge of XXX’s Corporate Card Policy and Procedure Library when completing various accuracy-driven tasks. I referenced this policy continually when reviewing and approving corporate card applications. When I determined applications were completed incorrectly by a cardholder or a staff member’s finance office on their behalf, I referred to a specific section in the policy; namely, Section 6: Obtaining a Corporate Card. This outlined the correct procedure for completing [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Project Officer, QLD Government

My client applied for the role of Project Officer in State (QLD) Government and progressed to the interview stage. The application involved addressing selection criteria across two pages in cover letter format. One of the criteria is showcased. Technology and Systems. In one of my previous roles, I provided hands on (technical) support during the implementation and rollout of a new technology. I held discussions with the department’s information technology (IT) [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model: Communication & Conflict Resolution

Across the board regardless of the level of the role (entry up to senior executive service in Government), tertiary and other sectors requiring the addressing of selection criteria, the most difficult criterion to write against is the COMMUNICATION criterion. Communication can encompass explaining, interpreting, persuading, influencing, negotiating, mediating, resolving, the list goes on. The mistake that most people make when they write for this criterion is they focus way too much [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Communications Operator, QPS

My client applied for the role of Communications Operator, in State (QLD) Government – Queensland Police Service (QPS) – and progressed to the interview stage. The application involved addressing five selection criteria in two pages. One of the criteria is showcased. Supports strategic direction. I have an understanding and knowledge of the QPS Strategic Plan 2017-2021 which outlines its Vision and four core Strategic Objectives – Stop crime, Strengthens relationships within [...]

FREE Selection Criteria | STAR Model Examples: Change & Risk Management

Two selection criteria examples – both formatted using the STAR Model – are broken down so you have a better understanding of each component of S-T-A-R. The second example throws in the Barrier component (S-T-A-B-R). Several APS Government departments stipulate demonstration of the barrier in the example; in particular, the Department of Defence, and the Australian Border Force (ABF). [Brackets in italics] are included at the end of a sentence or [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Chief Advisor, Psychological Health

My client applied for the role of Chief Advisor, Psychological Health in State (QLD) Government and progressed to the interview stage. The application involved addressing five selection criteria in two pages in cover letter format. One of the criteria is showcased. Demonstrates expert knowledge. The QLD Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (The Act) is the main legislation that guides me and my current organisation to comply and manage mental health [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Building Inspector, QLD Government

My client applied for the role of Building Inspector in State (QLD) Government and progressed to the interview stage. The application involved addressing four (4) selection criteria across two pages in cover letter format. One of the criteria is showcased. High level interpersonal, consultative, negotiation and mediation skills. On a key project I managed, the majority of stakeholders had conflicting objectives, goals and deadlines. To facilitate the process of resolution and [...]

Job Market Australia | Top 20 Most In-Demand Jobs due to COVID-19

Human Resources Director (HRD) posted an article earlier this month outlining how COVID-19 has created opportunities in the job market. Now is the time to consider how your transferable skills could apply to any of the following in-demand jobs. This is an opportune time for you if you’ve been thinking about changing careers and undertaking further training or studying. I recommend you select a training/study program that hones in on one [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers | Librarian, Tertiary Sector

My client applied for the role of Librarian in the tertiary sector, progressed to the interview stage and just missed out on the role. They came in second; the role was offered to an internal applicant, as is so common in the tertiary sector and across all levels of government (federal, state, local). The application involved addressing seven (7) selection criteria. Two of them are showcased. Demonstrated high-level problem solving skills [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Samples | Senior Investigator, WA Government

My client applied for the role of Senior Investigator in State (WA) Government and progressed to the interview stage. The application involved addressing five (5) selection criteria in three pages maximum. Following are excerpts from two of the criteria. Legislative compliance. On a large-scale investigation involving stealing from a high profile multi-national organisation across a wide spread geographical area, I was tasked with investigating the crimes and bringing offenders to justice [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses | Proof Reader, APS Government

My client applied for the role of Proof Reader in APS Government and progressed to the job interview stage. The application involved addressing five (5) selection criteria with a stipulated 300-word length limit for each. The following are excerpts from two of the criteria. Strong attention to detail and high-level English language skills, particularly written. In my most recent role at the Department of XYZ, I wrote numerous briefs for executive-level [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Program & Schedule Support Officer

My client applied for the role of Program & Schedule Support Officer in APS Government; in Services Australia, previously named the Department of Human Services (DHS) at that time. A total of 1,400 candidates applied; my client was shortlisted and progressed to the job interview stage. The application involved addressing four selection criteria. A full example from one criterion follows. Provide an example of a time where you have demonstrated your [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers | Social Worker, Mental Health Clinician

My client applied for the role of Social Worker, Senior Mental Health Clinician in State (QLD) Government and progressed to the job interview stage. The application involved addressing four selection criteria (professional commitment, teamwork skills, communication, and service to clients) across two pages in cover letter format. A full example from the communication criterion follows. Communication A pivotal review of the TTT Service was conducted and gross inconsistencies (both operational and [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Samples | Ranger – State (QLD) Government

My client applied for the role of Ranger in State (QLD) Government and progressed to the job interview stage. The application involved addressing six selection criteria across two pages; five Capability Leadership Framework (CLF) criteria plus an additional technical/knowledge criterion. Excerpts from two of the criteria follow. Displays Personal Drive and Integrity. Across all my roles and when volunteering on conservation projects, I strictly followed policies and procedures on occupational, health, [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses | Senior Manager Financial Services

My client applied for the role of Senior Manager Financial Services within State (NSW) Government, progressed to the job interview stage and was offered the role. A two-page statement in letter format addressing two targeted questions was prepared. A full example from one of the questions follows. Describe your role in a significant process improvement project to streamline financial processes and improve internal controls. When I first commenced in my current [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Admin Officer, Private Education

My client applied for the role of Administration Officer in the private education (secondary) sector and progressed to the job interview stage. The application involved addressing six selection criteria across two pages in cover letter format. A full example from one of the criteria follows. Business administration. In my most recent Administrative role, I undertook a variety of tasks that were highly voluminous, varied in complexity, and deadline-driven. I managed and [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers | Student Services Representative

My client applied for the role of Student Services Representative in the tertiary sector, progressed to the interview stage, was offered and accepted the role. As is the case with many tertiary applications, there are typically both essential and desirable selection criteria components to address. One selection criterion from the essential component follows. Ability to work within a clear set of protocols and guidelines, including the ability to refer enquiries appropriately [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Samples | Telehealth Support Officer

My client applied for the role of Telehealth Support Officer in State (WA) Government and progressed to the job interview stage. The application involved addressing eight essential and three desirable selection criteria. Two demonstrable examples using STAR model follow from one essential and one desirable criteria. Sound conceptual, analytical and problem solving skills. Working as a Field Service Engineer, I dealt with a variety of problems which arose due to system [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses | Expense Management Support Officer

My client applied for the role of Expense Management Support Officer in the tertiary sector, progressed to the job interview stage, was offered and accepted the role. The application involved addressing six selection criteria. Following is a demonstrable example using STAR model from one selection criterion. Ability to establish and maintain productive working relationships with key stakeholders and clients ensuring service delivery meets key requirements. Over the last two years, I [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Examples | Group Manager Local Government

My client applied for the role of Group Manager in a Council (Local Government) and progressed to the job interview stage. She gained glowing feedback from the entire selection panel and came in second with the job offered to the candidate who had been acting in the role – as is very common – but with much deliberation as my client impressed the panel across the board with the quality of [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers | Senior Investigator QLD Government

My client applied for the role of Senior Investigator in State (QLD) Government. He was one of five applicants (from a total of 40) shortlisted for an interview. A two-page statement was prepared to address six selection criteria. Following is a full excerpt of one criterion. An understanding of courtroom etiquette and proceedings. I have attended court on numerous occasions across four States and Territories and given evidence in different courts, [...]

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