Applying for a role in the Australian Public Service (APS) is different from applying for a private-sector job or even a state government role.
APS recruitment is governed by merit principles, guided by resources like Cracking the Code, and often requires a resume that works alongside a pitch or selection criteria document.
This guide answers every common APS-specific resume question — so you can meet panel expectations and pass initial screening.
Do I Have to Follow ‘Cracking the Code’ Exactly?
Cracking the Code provides guidance on applying for APS jobs, and while it’s not a rigid template, you should follow its intent:
- Show evidence of meeting the requirements in the position description
- Use clear, plain language
- Link your achievements to APS capabilities or ILS (Integrated Leadership System) behaviours
Ignoring this guidance can make your application look out of step with APS norms.
How Long Should My APS Resume Be?
- APS1–APS4 roles: 2–3 pages
- APS5–EL1 roles: 3–4 pages
- EL2 and SES roles: up to 5 pages if needed to show strategic leadership and high-impact projects
Do I Need a Separate ‘Summary of Capabilities’ Section?
It’s not mandatory, but it can help.
Include a short section outlining your key capabilities, mapped to the PD or ILS behaviours. This makes it easier for assessors to tick off capability requirements during shortlisting.
Should I Include STAR Examples in My Resume?
Yes — but use condensed “mini-STAR” format:
- Situation/Task: 1 sentence
- Action: 1 sentence
- Result: 1 sentence
Leave the full STAR detail for your pitch or selection criteria document.
What’s the Difference Between an APS Pitch and a Cover Letter?
- Pitch: A targeted 1–2 page statement (sometimes up to 750–1000 words) that explains why you’re the best candidate, using STAR examples and linking to the job’s capabilities.
- Cover Letter: More general introduction and summary of suitability (rarely used in APS these days).
If a pitch is requested, you don’t need a separate cover letter unless the job ad specifically asks.
Do I Still Need Selection Criteria if I’m Submitting a Pitch?
Usually, no — the pitch replaces traditional selection criteria.
But some agencies still ask for both. Always follow the exact instructions in the job ad.
Can I Reuse STAR Examples from My Resume in My Pitch?
Yes — in fact, you should. The resume shows high-level results, the pitch expands them into full STAR responses.
How Do I Tailor My APS Resume?
- Mirror the language of the PD in your summary and achievements
- Prioritise the most relevant experience for the role
- Adjust your keywords for each application to match the capability wording
Do APS Recruiters Use ATS?
Yes — many departments use Applicant Tracking Systems.
For ATS optimisation:
- Use exact job title and PD keywords
- Avoid graphics, multi-columns, or text boxes
- Spell out acronyms once before abbreviating
Should I Include Citizenship and Security Clearance?
Yes. Most APS roles require Australian citizenship, so list it clearly.
Also include your clearance level (e.g., Baseline, NV1, NV2, PV) or state “Eligible for [Level] Clearance” if applicable.
How Do I Present Short-Term Contracts or Multiple Departments?
Group similar roles under one heading if possible, noting the agencies worked for and contract dates.
Example:
APS5 Policy Officer – Multiple Departments (Contract Roles) — Jan 2022 to Dec 2023
Do I Need to Explain Career Gaps?
If gaps are longer than 3–6 months, add a short explanation (e.g., “Parental leave”, “Study”, “Career break”).
How Do I Show Acting or Higher Duties?
List them under your substantive role entry:
APS5 Project Officer (Acting APS6) — Mar 2024 to Aug 2024
Led a cross-agency taskforce to deliver policy reform ahead of schedule.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Copying ILS behaviours word-for-word without proof
- Overloading the resume with responsibilities instead of achievements
- Using private-sector resume styles with heavy design
- Leaving out citizenship and clearance details
- Not tailoring to the PD’s exact capability wording
Final Word
A competitive APS resume will:
- Follow the merit-based recruitment principles
- Integrate mini-STAR examples for evidence
- Complement, not duplicate, your pitch or selection criteria
- Clearly state citizenship and clearance status
- Be ATS-friendly and capability-aligned
Get these elements right, and your resume will pass both automated filters and panel review — giving you the best shot at progressing to interview.
