Selection Criteria Response

The Selection Criteria highlight the essential components (skills, knowledge, experience, qualities) that are required to perform in the role effectively. Your response to the Selection Criteria should demonstrate how your skills and experience support you as a suitable candidate for the role and allows the selection committee to effectively select candidates to proceed through the next stage of the process, such as an interview.

When applying for a position with Austrade, you will be asked to respond the selection criteria. If you do not respond to the selection criteria, it is unlikely that your application will support you well enough to be selected for interview.

How to Respond to Selection Criteria

To respond to the selection criteria, you need to write at least one paragraph (suggest two to three paragraphs) under each heading saying how you have previously demonstrated that experience, skill or quality. Highlight your relevant skills and experience by describing your major responsibilities in current or previous work, including unpaid work. You can use some dot points if you like.

Below is a good example of how to address a selection criterion.

Criterion: Demonstrated capacity to communicate effectively

'My ability to communicate effectively with a range of people was demonstrated in my position as receptionist with the XYZ community organisation. I dealt with members of the general public, officers from the local council and government departments, and representatives from private businesses on a daily basis.

I communicated with these people face to face, over the phone and through use of email. As I was the first point of contact for the organisation, it was very important that I was professional, courteous and helpful in my interactions. In recognition of my positive interpersonal skills my temporary position was extended for nine months beyond my initial contract.'

For further information and tips on how to address selection criteria and gain a job in the Australian Public Service please read 'Cracking the Code: How to apply for jobs in the Australian Public Service'.

For further assistance please contact our Recruitment Manager on (02) 6201 7431 or if you experience any difficulties using the application system, please contact our recruitment officer on (02) 6201 7331.