Once we receive all applications for the position, the selection panel will consider them all against the selection criteria and some applicants will be shortlisted for interview. Then interviews may be held and references checked.

Selection is based on apparent merit (which is why your application should demonstrate your suitability for the position).

In some cases, the selection panel may decide a written application and referee checks are sufficient to make a recommendation (a good reason to include your referees in your application).

Shortlisting

When deciding who will be interviewed, the selection panel is guided almost entirely by your written application. To give yourself the best chance of an interview (and ultimately the job), please ensure you address the selection criteria as best you can.

Do not assume the selection panel will know your work history, capabilities or skills, even if you are a current or previous City of Palmerston employee.

Your application must be professional, complete and demonstrate your suitability for the position. If you wish to be seriously considered for the position, you need to demonstrate you are serious about the job.

Interviews

As a guide, job interviews will take roughly 30-60 minutes. During this time, you will have the opportunity to expand on the information in your written application, to provide additional information and elaborate on your experience relating to the selection criteria.

Applicants should be prepared to answer questions about their skills, knowledge, previous employment, the City of Palmerston, and why they want the job. The information provided will assist the selection panel in deciding who is best suited to the advertised position.

In some cases, though not often, the panel may decide the written applications are sufficient and there is no need to interview applicants.

Testing

Depending on the position, some panels may ask the applicants to demonstrate their skills in typing, note taking or other computer related tests as additional evidence of the ability to perform the duties required of the position.

Referee checks

Referees may be contacted before or after an applicant is interviewed. The referees provided by the applicant may be asked to clarify or verify information. Not all referees will be contacted.

The selection panel makes the final decision as to who is the best suited for the position.

Notification of outcome

If the panel would like to interview you, you will be contacted by telephone to arrange an appointment.
Please advise on your application if you are going to be uncontactable or out of town for a period following the application closing date so that we can make other arrangements.

Applicants the panel does not wish to interview will be notified in writing.

Starting with us

Please be clear about how much notice you need to give your current employer if you are the preferred candidate. Your ability to start the job immediately is unlikely to impact on your appointment if you are the preferred candidate. We would rather be given an accurate starting date than an incorrect period because you think that's what we want to hear.

Prior to commencement with City of Palmerston, the successful candidate will be required to:

1. Provide proof of their eligibility to work in Australia;
2. Successfully pass a pre-employment Medical with council’s preferred Medical Provider; and
3. Pass a criminal history check (please note evidence of a current NT Ochre Card will satisfy this requirement).

Your contract

Your employment with the City of Palmerston is not formal until you have received, signed and returned your letter of offer, employment agreement and other related paperwork.

We reserve the right to withdraw a vacancy or an employment offer until your paperwork is completed and returned to us.