You do not need to navigate the move into APS employment. There are tools, services and people who can help you plan your next step, understand your options, prepare applications and build confidence for interviews.
Use Cracking the Code
The Australian Public Service Commission’s Cracking the Code guide explains how to apply for APS jobs, understand merit selection and present your skills and experience clearly. It is a useful resource to read before preparing your CV, pitch, selection criteria or interview examples.
Use the Veteran Employment Toolkit
The Veteran Employment Program’s Veteran Employment Toolkit provides practical guidance to help you plan your move to civilian employment, identify and translate your skills, apply for jobs and adjust to the civilian workplace. It includes information specifically for veterans seeking employment in the APS.
Access the Veteran Employment Toolkit through the Veteran Employment Program website: https://www.veteransemployment.gov.au/veterans/support-employment
Access transition support services
The BUSY Group delivers ADF Transition Support Services to help ADF members and families prepare for life after service. Support may include career transition coaching, job search preparation, resume and interview support, education or training pathways, and help exploring employment, volunteering or retirement options. Transition support may be available for up to 24 months after separation.
Learn about The BUSY Group’s ADF Transition Support Services: https://www.busyatwork.com.au/adf-transition-support-services/
Explore DVA rehabilitation and employment support
If you are unemployed, underemployed, changing careers or need help adjusting to the civilian workplace, you may be able to access support through DVA rehabilitation or the Support for Employment Program. DVA rehabilitation can include vocational support to help eligible veterans obtain or sustain suitable employment, including vocational counselling, job-seeking assistance, skills translation, retraining, work readiness support and help understanding the labour market.
If you have been separated from the Permanent Forces for less than 5 years and do not have a DVA rehabilitation plan, you may be able to apply for the Support for Employment Program through MyService. If you are unsure about eligibility or do not have a MyService record, contact DVA on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).
Ask questions before you apply
If you are interested in a role but unsure whether to apply, contact the contact officer listed in the job ad. You can ask about the duties, team environment, work arrangements, assessment process and the skills the panel is seeking. This can help you decide whether the role is a good fit and how to tailor your application.
Look after your wellbeing
Career transition can involve practical, professional and personal change. If you need support beyond job applications, reach out to trusted transition, wellbeing, health or family support services. The Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency website at https://www.veteranwellbeing.gov.au/ can help veterans and families find wellbeing information, search for services and connect with support. Asking for help early can make the process clearer and more manageable.