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How to Apply and the Recruitment Process

To apply for any of our vacant positions, send us your resume and a covering letter by the advertised closing date. Applicants should obtain a copy of the position description and address the selection criteria where possible.

We accept applications via:

email: hrjobapplications@portphillip.vic.gov.au

fax: 9536 2777

or post to:

The Recruitment Officer
People & Culture
City of Port Phillip
Private Bag No 3
PO St Kilda 3182

Recruitment Process

It's important to understand the steps in our recruitment process.  By understanding the process you can track the progress of your application.

Step One Advertisement
The advertisement will include the job details, position description and list the key selection criteria you must respond to. Contact details are provided in case you need more information.

Step Two Application
You can apply online, by e-mail, fax or through the post.  Applications must include a cover letter, resume, and your responses to the key selection criteria.  You must submit your application by the closing date shown in the advertisement.  Click here for more information about How to Apply.

Step Three Selection panel
The selection panel will be made up of the hiring manager and other suitably trained panel members. 

Step Four Ranking and short listing
The selection panel will rank and shortlist applicants based on their resume and key selection criteria responses. 

Step Five Interview
Short-listed applicants are invited to interview for the position. Behavioural interviewing, ability tests or other assessments may be used. Referees will be contacted.

Step Six Job Offer
The successful applicant will be contacted and offered the position.  Unsuccessful applicants will also be informed about interview outcomes.  Unsuccessful applicants can request feedback on their application and interview performance.

For more information
Contact our ASSIST helpdesk on (03) 9209 6777 - ask for the contact person in the advertisement or the People & Culture Team.

Tips on Applying

First impressions count, so take the time to make your application stand out. This page contains handy hints and explanations about how you can make your application the best it can be. 

Cover Letter

Cover letters are simply a letter of introduction.  When writing a cover letter you are writing to explain who you are, what position you're applying for, and why your are perfect for the job.  

Below lists information you should include in your letter:
1) The position and position reference number

2) Where you found the position advertised

3) Why you're perfect for the position

4) Who will contact who

Key Selection Criteria

Key Selection Criteria outline the qualities, knowledge and skills needed to do the job. Your responses to the key selection criteria should be short simple statements that demonstrate how your behaviour, knowledge, skills and experience meet the criteria. Use examples from your previous employment, your studies or your experiences outside of work. 

Example Resume

Your resume is an important tool which can help you sell yourself to a future employer.  It is important that your resume includes your contact details, your educational or professional training and your previous employment.
We've provided an example of a Resume below.  By using a simple and structured format you can clearly articulate your suitability for the role you're applying for. 

EXAMPLE ONLY


Resume

 

Personal Details:

Name:
Address:
Phone:
Mobile:
E-Mail:


Profession Summary:

(Describe your profession achievements and future career goals in a short, concise paragraph)


Professional Skills:

(In dot points describe your key professional skills.  It's important that your skills link to the job description for the role you're applying for).

Employment History:

Employer:   (name of the organisation)
Period Employed:  (start and end date)
Position:   (job title / function)


Responsibilities/Achievements:

(In dot points describe key responsibilities and significant personal or team achievements)

Qualifications:

Qualification:  (name of qualification)
Institution:   (name of university, college or institute)
Completion:   (indicate the year of completion)

(Repeat as required)

Skills / Training:

Course:  (name of course)
Date:   (indicate the year of completion)

(Repeat as required)

Professional Memberships:

(List the organisation and your membership status)

(Repeat as required)


References:

(Indicate the names and relationships of at least two professional references)

Other important resume tips:

  • Try to limit your resume to three pages.
  • Use dot points where you can.  It will make reading the information easier.
  • Insert page numbers.  Example: (pages 1 of 3).  This will ensure the reader knows if there are pages missing.


Interview Tips

The purpose of the job interview is to show your prospective employer that you have the knowledge, skills, experience, and ability to do the job well. 

Interviews can be daunting, but you can make the experience a little easier by being prepared.  Here are some simple tips which can help you have a better interview experience.

  • Don't be late. Get there 15 minutes early so you have time to compose yourself.
  • First impression counts so dress well.
  • Be yourself - be professional, be enthusiastic, and don't be afraid to let your personality shine through.
  • Listen carefully and answer the question. Think about your answer before you respond.  Answer in a clear and concise way.
    And last but not least: - 
  • Do your research.  Reread your application, your responses to the key selection criteria and other relevant documents.  Go to our website to learn more about the City of Port Phillip, our Council and organisation.

Use eServices to ask us a question, request information or give us feedback online. If you prefer call ASSIST on (03) 9209 6777 or TTy (03) 9209 6713 and ask for the contact person in the advertisment or People & Culture Team.