How to apply

Before applying

For more details on the application process, selection criteria, and employment conditions, refer to the ODPP Applicant Information Package (PDF, 237.1 KB).

To ensure a smooth application process, please keep the following in mind:

You must be an Australian citizen or have the legal right to work in Australia. You’ll need to provide proof before starting.
If you’ve previously received a severance payment from the Queensland Government, there may be rules that affect your re-employment.
Criminal history or disciplinary checks may be required, depending on the role.
We’ll contact your referees during recruitment. If any concerns are raised, you’ll have a chance to respond.
You may be asked to disclose serious disciplinary actions or criminal history.
Some roles require a working with children check. If you don’t already have a Blue Card, you may need to apply if you’re hired.
Most new employees start at the base salary for the role. However, there may be room to negotiate if you bring additional skills or experience.
Some positions require specific qualifications or professional registrations. You’ll need to provide evidence before commencing.
Most new employees begin with a probation period of at least three months.
Applications close at midnight on the advertised closing date. Late applications may be considered but cannot be appealed.

Review the role to understand duties, requirements, conditions, and any potential physical or psychological health and safety risks associated with the role.
Note the closing date and prepare your application ahead of time.
Ask questions by contacting the listed person, and plan your questions in advance.

Tailor your application by highlighting how your skills match the role, using real examples.
Update your resume to be clear, relevant, error-free, and no more than four pages.
Write a cover letter (maximum of two pages) showing how your experience and skills align with the role.
Select referees who know your recent work and get their permission before listing them.

Submit your application: Apply online via Smart Jobs.
Create an account: Set up a My SmartJob account to apply and save your progress.
Use correct file formats: Submit attachments in Word or PDF only—no zipped files or photos.
Submit on time: Late applications won’t be accepted via the online portal.
For technical issues: Call 13 QGOV (13 74 68).
No internet access? Contact 1300 146 370 for alternative options.
Hand-delivered applications are not accepted.

The panel will assess your eligibility and suitability of by considering:

your eligibility to perform the role (such as citizenship, residency, required qualifications and licences)
your ability to perform the requirements of the role, for example, the extent to which you have abilities, aptitude, skills, qualifications, knowledge, experience, and personal qualities relevant to carrying out the duties
how you have carried out any previous employment
your potential to make a future contribution to our Office
how your employment would align with our values.

You may be invited to an interview, asked to complete a work-related task, or take part in another type of assessment.
If you need adjustments to support your participation at any stage, you're welcome to request them. This won’t affect the outcome of your application.
For a confidential discussion, please email DPP.HROperations@justice.qld.gov.au.

Our pre-employment checks include:

two referees, including at least one who can speak to your recent work
a criminal history check
a declaration of any serious disciplinary history (for current and former public service officers)
proof of your qualifications and your right to work in Australia.

We’ll let you know the outcome. You can ask for feedback by contacting the panel chair.

If you have questions about a specific role, please contact the officer listed in the Role Description.

Last updated: 15 September 2025