Finding a job

On this page you will find information about:

• Searching for jobs
• Applying for jobs
• Tips for job interviews
• If you got the job
• If you didn't get the job
• Where to get help

Searching for jobs

JobActive

JobActive is the Australian Government's way of getting Australians into work. It connects job-seekers with employers. So if you're looking for work, get started right away with the job search tool.

Government jobs

• Find the latest Queensland Government vacancies. You can register for job alert emails and apply online.
• Find jobs in local governments throughout Queensland.
• The APS jobs website is your gateway to a challenging and rewarding career in the Australian public service.

Graduate Portal

Visit our Graduate Portal to discover student opportunities, how to register your interest, and to hear from previous graduates. Follow Queensland Government LinkedIn to find out about job opportunities, the work of our people and what it’s like to work in the Queensland Government.

Social media networks

Here are a few of the key social media network sites and tools you can use to help you find a job.

More information

Here are some other suggestions to help you find work:

• shops and cafes sometimes put vacancy signs in their windows
• most major newspapers have employment sections advertising job vacancies, usually on a Saturday
• recruitment agencies can help you find temporary work or a permanent job
• if you know where you would like to work, you could contact the employer directly to see if they have any vacancies.

Find out more about how to find job vacancies.

Applying for jobs

Most job advertisements outline what the employer wants to know about you to determine if you're suitable for the job.

Read this information carefully—it's your chance to tell employers about your skills, work history and suitability.

Don’t forget to check the closing date for applications.

Here are some things a potential employer might ask you to do or supply when applying for a job:

• a resume and cover letter
• a statement addressing selection criteria
• attend an interview
• participate in a group or individual activity
• complete an aptitude and ability test
• provide a referee report.

Find out how to build your job application skills.

How to write a resume and cover letter

A resume is a written record of your education, skills and experience. It offers a summary of your work history.

A cover letter accompanies your application and should highlight why you are suitable for the job.

The employer might ask you to address selection criteria, which means displaying how your experience relates to key responsibilities of a job. This particularly applies to government job applications.

Find out how to:

• write a resume
• write a cover letter
• address selection criteria.

You can also watch a video on YouTube by JobActive showing you how to tailor your resume.

Applying for jobs if you have a criminal history

Having a criminal record doesn’t stop you from getting a job, but for some jobs, the employer might ask you to have a criminal history check.

Check the job description or contact the employer to check if this applies to the job you’re interested in. If it does, find out where to get legal advice and how to apply for a criminal history check at your local police station.

Tips for job interviews

An interview is often the final step in securing the job you want. The best way to overcome any nerves leading up to a job interview is to be properly prepared. Find out how to prepare yourself for a job interview.

You can also visit the Job Jumpstart website to find out how to make a great first impression on employers, and JobActive has a helpful video on YouTube showing you how to dress for an interview.

If you got the job

Congratulations! You got the job.

Now that you’re about to start in a new job, find out about your rights as an employee, entitlements and pay. This covers leave entitlements, awards and wages, workplace conditions, workers' compensation and discrimination in the workplace.

You might also like to get some advice on tax, superannuation and financial planning.

If you get the job and discover it's not for you, find out more about changing careers.

If you didn't get the job

Don't be discouraged if you are having trouble finding work—treat each job application process as a learning experience. Maybe your resume, cover letter or applications are not highlighting your suitability for the role.

If your application is unsuccessful, ask the employer or recruiter if you could improve your application to show them that you have the skills for the job.

If you had an interview but didn’t get the job, call the employer and ask for some tips for improvement.

If you keep asking for feedback and use it to improve your applications and interview performance, you will eventually be successful and get the job best suited to you.

Where to get help

• If you need assistance while you are looking for a job, there are a range of government and community services that may be able to help.
• Job Outlook can give you details about the skills different jobs need and how to get them.
• Back to Work has jobseeker officers throughout Queensland who can help you identify and connect with tailored support to find and retain a job in your local area. Find a jobseeker officer in your area.
• If you're aged 15 and over, no longer at school and need help to secure a job, the Skilling Queenslanders for Work training projects can help you to gain skills, qualifications and experience you need. Find a project near you.
• If your search for a job starts getting you down, remember there is always help for managing your thoughts, anxiety or depression.