Applying for a job in WA's government sector

Eligibility to apply for a job in WA’s government sector 

To be employed in WA's government sector you must be an Australian citizen, have permanent resident status in Australia or have a visa that allows you to live and work in Australia for the period of your employment contract.  

Some government jobs have other employment conditions or requests. If you meet these criteria it is helpful to highlight this in your application or when answering the questions in the online application portal.  

WA Government’s diversity and inclusion 

The WA Government is building a diverse and inclusive workforce. This means people of all backgrounds and abilities are encouraged to apply for jobs where you will find accessible and inclusive workplaces. 

WA law allows jobs to be designated to certain groups of people based on their race, sex, disability or age. An example is stating a job is for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people only. This is sometimes called a 50(d) position as this is the section of legislation that allows it. Jobs designated in this way are clearly described in the advertisement and job description. 

How to apply for a job in the government sector 

Job application requirements 

The job application requirements for each agency may differ so read all the information in the job advertisement carefully to make sure you follow things such as word limits, fonts and deadlines. These requirements are sometimes described in a downloadable application pack.  

There is often a link to a detailed job description which usually contains selection criteria. These criteria are used to choose the best person for the job so it is important in your application to describe and address how your skills and experience meet them.  

Most job listings also have a contact who you can speak to about any questions you may have.

Recruitment process 

Often the job ad or information pack will include information about the recruitment process, and this may include if successful being selected for an interview.  

Whether you are selected for an interview or not, when the recruitment process is finished you are informed in writing about the result.  

This information contains details of a contact person who can give you feedback on your application that can help you make your next application stronger.   

 Remember, no matter what role you’re looking for, persistence and preparation are key. Your next opportunity could be right around the corner!   

What is a good way to write a job application for a government role? 

If you are required to write an application to apply for a job, each government agency may ask for different information or formats.

For example, you may be asked just for a cover letter addressing only a few selection criteria, or to address all selection criteria, so make sure you check what is needed.

It’s important to think about yourself in the role and what you can bring to the job and team. Outline your skills and experience that are relevant and how they will benefit the government agency or department.

Speaking to the contact person listed on the job ad is a good way to learn more about the role, which helps you write a better application.

When answering a question or criteria, don’t forget to use a relevant example. Describe the context of the situation, talk about the action you took, remember to use “I” and stay away from using ‘team’ or ‘we’ to describe that action.

Identify the outcome of your action, including feedback you received along the way, and talk about the results that were delivered for the organisation.

Visit Get that job on the Jobs and Skills WA website for more information about writing job applications.

Government pool recruitment

You might see the terms 'pool', 'talent pool', 'appointment pool' or 'talent register' in some government job advertisements. 

Pool recruitment is where a process identifies a number of people as suitable for a government job. These people may then be appointed to future permanent or temporary jobs. Generally, a pool operates for 6 to 12 months from the date it is established, so it can be a great way of securing a job in the future.

As with all government sector recruitment, you are informed in writing about the result at the end of the process. 

Permanent and temporary jobs in the WA government sector 

Jobs in WA's government sector may be permanent or temporary. If you are appointed to a permanent job, it is yours for as long as you choose to stay unless there are serious concerns with performance (employees are provided with extensive support if performance is not satisfactory) or if there are legal or integrity reasons why a person needs to be removed from a job.

Fixed term and temporary appointments are available for a set period. The advertisement for these roles may sometimes indicate the possibility of extension or permanency. 

Working in temporary government jobs allows you to gain valuable experience in the government sector which can enhance your prospects to win future jobs. It is an excellent way to learn about different government agencies and discover what roles you are passionate about.