Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find job opportunities in the WA State Government?
The best way to search for job vacancies in the WA State Government is to visit our online job board at www.jobs.wa.gov.au
This site usually has over 800 jobs advertised at any one time. You can even refine your search based on occupation, agency, location, salary range, work type, level and date advertised.
You can search the jobs board on a daily basis or create a search profile through the Email Me Jobs facility. This service will automatically email jobs through to you that match your search profile.
Many government agencies also advertise employment opportunities on their own websites. For a complete list of agencies and their websites click here.
How do I apply for a job that has been advertised?
Agencies usually supply a Job Application Package to provide you with all the information necessary to help you apply for the position. These can be downloaded from the job advertisement at www.jobs.wa.gov.au or can be mailed to you by telephoning the contact person nominated in the advertisement.
If a Job Application Package is provided, you should always consult it before submitting your application. Application instructions vary from job to job. For example, you may see the following requirements: Detailed tips on submitting your application can be found under the section Working in WA Government - Application Tips on this website.
Do I have to sit the Public Sector Recruitment Test to apply for jobs?
No, it's not necessary to sit the Public Sector Recruitment Test prior to applying for jobs advertised on www.jobs.wa.gov.au. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria stated in the job advertisement, you can apply for any advertised position. It's only necessary to sit the Public Sector Recruitment Test if you want to be considered for the types of employment opportunities (administrative/clerical) available through the Entry Level Employment Program. More information about the Entry Level Employment Program is available here.
I'm under 25 years old with little work experience, what employment opportunities are available for me in the WA State Government?
The WA State Government is committed to increasing the representation of youth among its workforce and providing job opportunities for all young people. Graduate Programs, traineeships, apprenticeships and cadetships are some of the ways the State Government provides on-the-job training opportunities. To begin your search, why not check out these sites:
Am I eligible to apply for Public Sector jobs?
There are some minimum eligibility criteria you must meet to work in the Western Australian Public Sector. These criteria will be stated in the job advertisement. Below is a list of some eligibility criteria you may see:
- Permanent Position
Only Australian citizens or permanent residents may apply
- Fixed-Term/Contract/Temporary Position
Australian citizens, permanent residents and people with a valid working visa may apply
- Secondment/Acting Opportunity
Only existing Public Sector employees may apply
- Section 50(d) Equal Opportunity Act 1984
Only persons of a specified race may apply as this is deemed a genuine occupational qualification
- Section 66(ZQ) Equal Opportunity Act 1984
Only persons of a specified age may apply as this is deemed a genuine occupational qualification If you're unsure if you're eligible to apply, please contact the contact person nominated in the job advertisement.
Where can I find information on government departments and agencies?
Most government departments and agencies have their own website. A list of all government bodies and their websites is available here.
I used to work in the WA public sector but accepted a voluntary severance package. Can I still apply for jobs?
If you've accepted a voluntary severance package, you can apply for permanent and contract positions after the qualifying period of your severance package. You can check the expiry date of your qualifying period by contacting the Public Sector Management Division on (08) 9219 6268.