Applying for a job
On this page:
How can I apply?
You can find job ads for all our current roles on our Current Vacancies page. Below the job ad, you’ll find the application form.
We can only accept applications through our online application form. We can’t accept applications via email.
Check the Position Description
You can download the Position Description (PD) from the job ad.
The PD gives you more detail about:
- The job and what it will involve
- The team you would be working in
- Our organisational values
- The job’s physical requirements.
Please read the PD before applying for the job.
Writing your cover letter
Your cover letter is where you talk about why you’re the best candidate for the job.
Include details about jobs, projects or achievements that demonstrate the skills and experience required for the job. You don’t need to respond directly to the Key Selection Criteria listed in the PD.
If you don’t have experience in a job like this, but you have transferable skills or relevant volunteer experiences, tell us about them and how they apply to this job.
Don’t forget to include:
- Your contact details (preferably both your phone number and your email address)
- The job title
- The date.
Some tips to keep in mind:
- Keep your letter to one page or less.
- Tell us why you’re interested in the role and in working for Merri-bek.
- Back up your strengths and experience by using real examples.
- Mention any lived experience you have that would contribute to the role.
Learn more about cover letters on the Workforce Australia website.
Developing your resume
Your resume is a summary of your employment history, skills, achievements, qualifications and training.
Some tips to keep in mind:
- Keep it short and clear – use bullet points and short sentences and avoid jargon.
- Tailor your resume to address the requirements of the role.
- Talk to your referees before you list them – make sure they are comfortable with being your referee.
Learn more about writing and formatting resumes on the Workforce Australia website.
Answering interview questions
As part of our interviews, we ask behavioural questions to find out how you’ve behaved in relevant situations in the past. Behavioural questions usually start with a phrase like “tell me about a time when…”.
When we ask behavioural questions, we’d like you to use the STAR method in your answer.
A STAR answer includes the:
- Situation – what was the situation you were in?
- Task – what did you need to do?
- Action – what actions did you take to achieve the task?
- Result – what was the result of your actions?
Learn more about the STAR method on the Seek website.
Job application FAQs
What do I need to have ready?
As part of your application, you’ll be asked to upload:
- Your resume (also called a Curriculum Vitae, or CV)
- A cover letter that talks about your relevant skills and experience.
Depending on the role, you may be asked to upload other relevant documents. These could include a Working With Children Check (WWCC), relevant qualifications or a driver’s licence (if you’ll need to drive as part of the job).
If you don’t have the documents you need, you can:
- Upload a short note explaining the problem e.g. I don’t currently have a WWCC but have started my application.
- Go ahead with your application.
Note: if you accidently upload the wrong document, just email us at recruitment@merri-bek.vic.gov.au with the correct one.
When do applications close?
The job ad lists the closing date and time for applications.
If we receive a lot of applications, we may close the job ad earlier than the date and time listed. If this happens, the job ad may still be visible, but you won’t be able to see the application form.
We recommend applying as soon as you can.
When will I hear back?
It can take the Hiring Manager a couple of weeks to review the applications after the ad has closed.
Job hunting is stressful, so we appreciate your patience and understanding.
I need adjustments to the recruitment process
Merri-bek is committed to removing barriers and increasing access to employment, where possible.
For more information about access requirements or adjustments during the recruitment process, contact Danni Jovanovic, Recruitment Business Partner on recruitment@merri-bek.vic.gov.au
I have questions about the role
If you have questions about the role, contact the Hiring Manager. You can find their name and contact details in the job ad.
I’m having technical difficulties
If you’re having technical difficulties with the application form, try accessing the page through a different browser e.g. Chrome, Firefox etc.
If you’re still experiencing issues, contact our Recruitment Team via email on recruitment@merri-bek.vic.gov.au
Do you offer visa sponsorship?
Unfortunately, Merri-bek City Council can’t offer visa sponsorship for international applicants.
If you are not sure whether you are eligible, contact the Hiring Manager for the role you’re interested in. Their details are in the job ad.