Application process
The 6 stages
The application process involves 6 stages and runs over several months. You will need to pass each stage to move to the next stage.
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Stage 1
Online application – March/April 2026
To complete the application, you will need:
- personal profile information
- current employment details
- responses to all application questions
- details of your qualification (completed between December 2021 and 31 December 2026)
- your resume.
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Stage 2
Complete an online work sample assessment — May 2026
If you move to stage 2, you will complete an online work sample assessment. We will give you instructions on what you need to do.
If your assessment meets the required standards, you will be invited to a video interview.
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Stage 3
Video interview — June 2026
You will be asked up to 5 questions.
To prepare for the interview, we recommend:
- researching the Department of Social Services
- practicing your responses before your video interview
- checking your camera and audio work properly on the device you are using for your interview
- ensuring your video background and lighting are appropriate
- dressing as if you were attending an in-person interview.
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Stage 4
Referee reports —July 2026
We will contact your referee to confirm your employment history, qualifications, experience and suitability for the role.
Referee reports also allow us to clarify any matters discussed during earlier stages.
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Stage 5
Merit pool and job matching — July/August 2026
If you are successful through all the assessment stages, you will enter the merit pool.
The merit pool includes more applicants than positions available. We use the pool to match the right jobs to the right applicants.
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Stage 6
Verbal employment offer — August to November 2026
If you are matched to a role, we will contact you with aa verbal employment offer. The offer is conditional until you complete:
- a police check
- a Baseline security clearance process.
You can read more about what will be required in the employment checks.
We strongly recommend you do not resign from your current employer until you receive a formal written offer and you have successfully obtained the required clearances.
More information
- Graduate Development Program
- Graduate pathways
- Graduate frequently asked questions
- Working with us
- DFP Recruitment supports the application process for us. You can contact them on 1300 895 669 or email dss.graduates@dfp.com.au.