Australia’s national security environment is complex, challenging and ever-evolving. Rapidly advancing technologies present great opportunities to improve our lives, yet they pose serious threats when used against us. The Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) is committed to growing its workforce, ensuring we have the right people, technology, tools and communications available to deliver our mission from multiple locations.
Explore our resources for candidate advice on preparing for a career at ASD, the skills framework behind our career opportunities, and a range of puzzles and challenges.
How to address application and interview questions
When applying for a job at ASD we will ask you to submit a written application with your resume or CV. This could be in the form of a statement addressing particular selection criteria, or a short ‘pitch’ or statement setting out your skills, abilities and experience relevant to the job.
It is important you provide evidence to back up your claims. Where possible use actual, specific examples of what you have done, how well you did it, what you achieved, and how it relates to the requirements of the job. The STAR model can help you form your answer.
For each criterion, think about the following and use these points to form sentences:
- Situation—Set the context by describing the circumstance where you used the skills or qualities and gained the experience.
- Task—What was your role?
- Actions—What did you do and how did you do it?
- Results—What did you achieve? What was the end result and how does it relate to the job you are applying for?
An example of how this works in practice can be found on the APSC website.
How to prepare for your interview
We know that preparing for an interview can be stressful for some. You don’t need to break out your formal wear but come dressed in what you feel comfortable wearing to work each day.
Remember - we want to hear from you about how you have handled previous situations or undertaken previous tasks. The interview is a chance for us to hear from you. It’s not an exam so it can be helpful to have a few examples of your work written down so that you can refer to them if you need.
Finally – arrive a little early to the interview location so that you don’t feel rushed if there is traffic or an unexpected delay.
Further information to help prepare for an interview can be found on the APSC website.
What to expect during the process
The process for joining our organisation is a little different to most other employers and will take a little longer. This is because we make sure that you’re the right fit for us, and we’re the right fit for you.
We will notify you of your outcome at each stage in the process and let you know what we need, to continue moving things forward. You might need to be patient with us as our processes are underway, but a role with us is worth the wait.
Overview of security assessment
A comprehensive security assessment is a prerequisite for all ASD staff. Security assessments measure your personal integrity and suitability to work in a high-security environment.
To work in ASD all prospective staff must undertake an Organisational Suitability Assessment (OSA) through ASD, and obtain an Australian Government Security Clearance through the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA).
Both the OSA and the clearance process explore personal and sensitive aspects of your life, and require you to provide documents and information. Security assessments can take some time to complete.
For more information download:
- Preparing for your OSA and Security Clearance checklist [PDF 656KB]
- Security Information for prospective employees guidance [PDF 708KB]
Additional information on the security clearance process can be found on the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency website.