How do I apply

Lodging an application 

Useful advice on completing the application form

 Find more detailed information about 'protective' applications in our useful tip sheet 

We have also developed practical step-by-step guides on how to lodge an application form correctly - depending on whether or not you won a promotion. The same form is used for all applications. We just ask for slightly different answers to some of the questions. 

Submit your application

Recruitment involving multiple promotions 

Sometimes agencies and departments will advertise multiple positions using the same job vacancy number. This means that once the recruitment process is finalised, the promotion decisions may be published in different APS Gazettes and over a number of weeks. In these ‘bulk recruitments’ each promotion notice will use the same vacancy number.

It is important to note you must complete separate application forms for each new promotion you seek to have reviewed. Remember to keep checking new editions of the APS Gazette for notifications of new promotion decisions.

What you need to do

We must receive your application for promotion review by 5.00pm local time 14 days from the date the promotion notice was published in the Gazette. ‘Local time’ is 5.00pm in the state or territory in which the application is made. Applications made overseas must be lodged by 5.00pm Australian Eastern Standard Time.

We will not accept applications after that time. Check the APS Gazette or our website for timeframe changes during Christmas and New Year holidays.

What to expect after lodging an application

An email with a reference number will be sent to your email address. You can contact us if you don’t receive an acknowledgement email after submitting your application.

We then assess each application and check for accuracy and completeness. We also make sure that each applicant has met the eligibility criteria. Sometimes we might need to contact you and ask a few questions to determine your eligibility.  

Invalid or late applications will not proceed to review.

How do I find out if my application is accepted?

Every Friday by 2.00pm we publish the vacancy numbers of those promotions where we have received applications for review. For most matters, it is usually the Friday following the closing date for making an application (unless Friday is a public holiday).

Once we have completed all our checks and confirmed the promotion is reviewable, we will contact all the parties directly.

Can I withdraw my application?

Yes, you can withdraw your application at any time, in writing. Please email your request to review@mpc.gov.au.