The Department of Social Services (DSS) is committed to improving the social and economic wellbeing of individuals and families in Australian communities through the administration of a diverse range of policies, payments, programs and services. We fund services and payments that assist families, children and older people, provide a safety net for those who cannot fully support themselves, enhance the wellbeing of people with high needs, assist those who need help with care and support a diverse and harmonious society.
We work in partnership with government and non-government organisations to achieve our mission through the effective development, management and delivery of payments, policies, programs and services across four core areas that reflect the people we seek to assist: Social Security, Families & Communities, Disability & Carers, and Housing.
We are an inclusive department with many committees, networks and resources to ensure that we foster a truly diverse and inclusive workforce, including:
We encourage all staff to join a network and/or attend events that are held throughout the year celebrating our diversity.
Stage 1: Online application
You will need the following information:
When you submit your application, you will receive an email to confirm receipt. If you are successful in the application process, you will advance to the next stage.
Stage 2: Complete an online work sample assessment — early May 2021
Applicants moving to stage two participate in a work sample assessment. If your online work sample assessment meets the requirements, the next stage requires participating in a one-way video interview.
Stage 3: Video interview — mid-May 2021
The video interview is a one-way, recorded interview. You should expect to answer up to five questions.
Stage 4: Referee reports — June 2021
Referee reports confirm information about your employment history, qualifications, experience and role suitability.
Stage 5: Merit pool — July 2021
At the completion of the application process, successful applicants move to the merit pool. The merit pool contains more applicants than positions available. From this merit pool, we conduct a matching process, finding the right jobs for the right people.
Stage 6: Receive a verbal employment offer — August to December 2021
If you are successful in the matching process, we will contact you with an offer of employment. The offer is conditional based on you obtaining a police check and baseline security clearance.
The public service offers Australian citizens career progression and variety, as well as excellent pay and conditions.