Tips on preparing a statement

What is a statement of claim?

A statement of claim is a written statement in support of your application. It is an opportunity to demonstrate your capabilities for the role. The Committee will consider the statement when assessing your merit for the role. The statement is in addition to any information from the original recruitment process.

What format to use

There is no template or standard format. You may update your original application by adding new information or draft a completely new statement of claim for the role. You can choose not to provide a statement of claim and have the Committee rely on your original application.

If you have a disability or require special arrangements please contact us on 02 8239 5330 (option 1).

Time frames

We will usually give applicants 2 weeks to submit a statement.

What makes a good statement of claim?

A statement of claim should describe your skills, knowledge, capabilities and experiences as they relate to the role. It should explain why you are the most suitable person for the role. Things to consider when drafting a statement of claim are:

• Be clear and concise in how you structure your claim. For example, use headings and explain your work history in a sequential way, using dates. Do not use agency specific terminology or acronyms.  
• Include specific and relevant work examples to demonstrate your qualities and demonstrate how you have added value and made a contribution.
• Address each of the essential selection criteria listed in the role description and the job advertisement. Take in account the work level standards for the role and refer to the capability framework.
• Include up to date information. A committee can consider recent experience or training obtained since the original decision was reached. For example, attendance at a course, new skills or acting opportunities and recent performance ratings that support your claim for the role.
• Include supporting documentation such as referee reports (recruitment panels generally only obtain referee reports on successful candidates). This can be as simple as attaching an email from your supervisor.

Other things to consider

Do not assume your agency or department’s selection report will provide adequate reasons on how it ranked candidates or reached its decision.

Comments about other parties are not required as part of your claim to the promotion on the grounds of you having greater merit. If you decide to comment about other parties to the review, they must be respectful, professional and consistent with the values, employment principles and the code of conduct.  Adverse comments about another party may be disclosed during the promotion review process.

Who gets a copy of my statement of claim

Only the panel members get a copy of your statement and any other supporting documentation or information. This is set out in Public Service Regulations 1999 5.12(5)(a) and 5.12(5)(b).

How to submit a statement of claim

• Complete and check your statement before sending. It is your responsibility to make your statement does not contain confidential information about third parties
• Complete the personal details form which was sent to you
• Save your statement, attachments and the personal details form as a single PDF document and title it with the PRC reference number and your full name. For example PRC-21-0000 – First name, Second name. Attachments to the PDF will not be accepted.
• Send the PDF document via email to review@mpc.gov.au by close of business on the due date. The subject line for the email must include PRC reference number, first name and second name.
• Where ever possible, use your work email address.

If you do not receive an acknowledgement email after submitting your form and statement of claim please contact us on 02 8239 5330 (option 1).