Frequently Asked Questions

We are committed to providing clear and concise information to help you navigate your career journey with QPS. Here, you'll find answers to frequently asked questions about our recruitment processes, application tips, and more. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact our QPS Staff Recruitment Team.

If I have any questions about the vacancy, who do I ask?

Each job advertisement on SmartJobs includes a contact person and their contact details. You can reach out to them directly via email or phone to enquire about the role.

What is SmartJobs?

SmartJobs is a Queensland Government website that allows job seekers to find new Queensland Government job opportunities and apply for jobs online:

Job alerts

Create a free account to receive email alerts when new jobs that match your criteria are added to the site. To set up an alert, you can:

1. Log in to My SmartJob
2. Select My Job alert
3. Choose your preferred location, salary, and occupational group
4. Select Test to see a list of current jobs
5. Select Save to confirm the alert or Cancel to delete it

Job applications

Use your free My SmartJob account to apply for jobs online. You can also use your account to view your application history, save drafts, and return to submit your application before the deadline.

Search tips

SmartJobs uses an Intelligent Alias Matching system to find results for commonly used or abbreviated terms. You can also search by job category.

Check out SmartJobs help site for detailed instructions on registering, setting up alerts and other useful information.

How do I apply for a job?

Visit the QPS how to apply page to assist you in navigating SmartJobs, searching for roles and preparing and submitting your application. The page also provides an understanding of how to find the requirements of the position and provides you with essential organisational and instructional information.

If a vacancy has closed, can I still submit an application?

If you miss an application deadline, you can reach out to the vacancy contact listed in the job advertisement. Explain your situation and request consideration for submitting a late application. The contact person will review your request and determine whether a late application can be accepted.

How long does the recruitment process take?

The QPS offers a diverse range of roles, each with its own application process and associated timelines.

We endeavour to complete selection processes in a timely manner. To understand the estimated processing time for a particular role, please review the applicant guide attached to the advertisement. For more specific inquiries, please contact reach out to vacancy contact or panel chair.

I have been interviewed, why haven’t I heard anything yet?

Depending on the role, we will facilitate various checks including criminal history, employment screening/integrity vetting, psychological assessments, and confirmation of qualification criteria. Depending on the complexity of the checks, timeframes can vary.  For updates regarding your application status including the progress of your application, please contact the panel chair or further information can be found on the Application Process page.

How will you contact me about my application?

Emails - Any email correspondence from us should come from the Queensland Police domain ‘@police.qld.gov.au’ or ‘@smartjobs.qld.gov.au’. Similarly, any links to online information should go to a Queensland Government URL (ending with ‘qld.gov.au’).

Phone calls - Caller ID or smartphones may display our calls as unknown or from a private number. Hiring managers will identify themselves and the reason for the call.

When should I give notice to my current employer?

Every individual has their own set of circumstances as to when they would advise their current employer of their intentions in giving notice. You will receive a written Offer of Appointment once the selection process and pre employment checks have been finalised. Do not take any action, such as resigning from your current position, until you receive the written offer.

What is workplace adjustment?

A workplace adjustment is a modification given to you during the recruitment process, to minimise the impact of barriers you may face. QPS actively promotes inclusivity in recruitment practices.

Please check the ‘Commitment to candidates’ page.

Can I ask for a workplace adjustment?

Yes, you can request a workplace adjustment. It's important to be specific about the adjustment you need and how it will help you participate fairly in the process. Please contact the panel chair for further information.

Do I need to be an Australian citizen to apply for a role?

No, Section 47 of the Public Sector Act 2023 provides: a person is eligible to be a public service officer only if the person is:

• an Australian citizen; or
• resides in Australia and has permission, under a Commonwealth law, to work in Australia.

If you are not an Australian citizen, you will need to provide proof that you can legally work in Australia. Any visa conditions will also need to be provided and adhered to. 

However, some roles may required Australian citizenship for security clearance purposes. Please check the position description when applying.

Can I reapply for a position if I have previously been unsuccessful?

Yes you can, we would recommend seeking feedback on your previous application and ensure when submitting your updated application, it demonstrates the required skills and attributes to deliver the role.

What if I have technical issues, when submitting my application?

If you experience any technical difficulties when accessing Smart Jobs, please contact 13 74 68.

If you do not have internet access and are unable to submit your application online, please contact the QSS (Queensland Shared Service) Customer Support Team on 1300 146 370, (between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday) to enquire about alternative arrangements that may be available to you.

All calls relating to the status of your application once the job has closed should be directed to the Contact Officer on the position description.

Should you require any further information please refer to the Contact Officer whose name appears on the Position Description.

I have submitted an entry level administration (AO3) application, what's next? 

When an AO3 role becomes available we will review your application and match it to our role requirements. Your application is then forwarded on to the hiring manager who will contact you directly. We are unable to advise when the next position will become available.

Entry level administration pools will remain current for 12 months, if you wish to no longer be considered, you can withdraw your application. 

I have just applied to an entry level administration (AO3) pool, am I able to apply to other jobs while waiting for a response?

Yes, you can apply to other jobs while waiting for a response to your AO3 application. Applying for multiple roles can increase your chances of securing a position that aligns with your skills and career goals.

Still have questions?

If I have any questions, who do I ask? Each job advertisement on the SmartJobs includes a contact person and their contact details. You can reach out to them directly via email or phone to enquire about the role.

If you have any general enquiries, please contact our QPS Staff Recruitment team.

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