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Selection criteria describe the skills, knowledge, experience and qualifications needed to undertake the role effectively. These are the factors against which applicants are assessed to determine their relative merit for the job.
When applying for a position with the ABS you may be asked to respond to a number of selection criteria. If this is the case, it is recommended that you take the time to write up your responses in a text program before hand, although you can enter your claims directly into the system. This will allow you to copy and paste the text into the online application once you have reviewed your claims. We recommend using Notepad for Windows and TextEdit for Mac.
When writing your responses to the Selection Criteria ensure they provide examples of your relevant skill, capabilities, experience and qualifications and demonstrates how they meet each selection criteria. Although they should be comprehensive, they must also be succinct as most selection criteria have a limit of 350 words.
How To Respond to Selection Criteria
When responding to selection criteria, it is important that you address each criteria, consider what they mean in relation to the responsibilities of the role and provide evidence of your suitability. Do not simply state that you meet the requirements of the selection criteria - give examples from your current or past role(s) which demonstrate how you meet each criteria.
An approach you may consider utilising is the STAR Model – that is:
Situation – provide a brief outline of the situation or setting
Task – outline what you did
Approach or action – outline how you did it
Result – describe the outcomes
If you have not had direct experience in the particular work setting specified, you can demonstrate your ability and/or potential by comparing it to similar or equivalent responsibilities in another role or studies you may have undertaken. You can also draw examples from non-work activities that may also demonstrate skills and knowledge relevant to the selection criteria.
Responses to selection criteria for all roles within the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) are assessed against the Australian Public Service Commission’s Integrated Leadership System (ILS). This framework outlines a set of broad capabilities relevant to all positions within the agency. For further information about the ILS and descriptions of the capabilities required, please see the individual profile for the level you are applying for. The capabilities under each of the Selection Criterion are there to help you understand the types of behaviours and skills expected in relation to each criterion.
Further information
For further information on addressing selection criteria in the Public Service, see:
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This page last updated 27 March 2013 | 
