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How we select our people
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- » Merit based selection
- » The selection panel
- » Referees
- » Selection results
- » Our responsibilities
- » Applicants’ responsibilities
- » Recruitment and selection timeframes
Merit based selection
Section 10(2) of the Public Service Act 1999 defines a decision relating to engagement or promotion being merit based if:
- an assessment is made on the relative suitability of the candidates for the duties, using a competitive selection process;
- the assessment is based on the relationship between the candidates’ work-related qualities and the work-related qualities genuinely required for the duties;
- the assessment focuses on the relative capacity of the candidates to achieve outcomes related to the duties; and
- the assessment is the primary consideration in making the decision.
The NHMRC’s selection processes are transparent and free from patronage, favouritism, and discrimination.
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The selection panel
A selection panel is established to assess the suitability of applicants for the job, and to make a selection recommendation to the delegate. The panel will typically consist of three people, taking into account equity and diversity requirements and appropriate ability to assess candidates against the position. A scribe may also be present to assist in documenting the interview.
The selection panel may consider the following matters when shortlisting your application:
- current abilities;
- skills and knowledge;
- experience;
- qualifications, training and competence;
- standard of work performance and a demonstration of capability for potential further development; and
- personal qualities.
The selection panel may use one or more of these assessment methods:
- written applications (including selection criteria, expressions of interest and resumes);
- interviews (either structured or informal);
- referees reports
, either verbal or written (see Referees); and/or - work sample testing (such as work simulations and technical aptitude testing).
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Referees
Your application should include the names and contact details of two referees. Your referees should be able to comment on your skills and abilities in relation to the position, and give examples from their own observations. You should advise your nominated referees that they may be contacted before submitting your application.
Referees reports may be obtained verbally, or by asking a referee to complete the Referee Report Form . Referee Report Forms should be completed with regard to the Capability Rating Scale .
Verbal referee reports may be used to:
- confirm claims made by the preferred applicant(s) following interview,
- distinguish between similarly ranked applicant(s) following interview, and
- clarify claims or issues raised at any stage of the process.
Verbal reports are documented and given back to the referee so that they can confirm that the comments accurately reflect what they said. This ensures transparency and fairness and is in line with Information Privacy Principles. If a referee report does not support your claims, or requires further substantiation, the selection panel may contact a person not nominated by you as a referee. In accordance with the Privacy Act 1988, a Chairperson will advise you before seeking additional referee comment, and provide you with an opportunity to address any adverse comments that may arise.
If your nominated referee is on the selection panel, that panel member should provide a written referee report before interviews are conducted, and, a second referee should be contacted. Applicants can be asked to nominate additional referees if a panel member does not feel that they can remain impartial having been exposed to information gathered during the selection process.
It is preferred that one of your referees is your current supervisor. Please indicate on the NHMRC Application Form 
if you have concerns regarding referee contact.
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Selection results
All applicants will be advised of the outcome of the selection process in writing. Applicants who are not shortlisted for further assessment will be notified as soon as practicable and will not have to wait for the selection process to be finalised. If you have been interviewed, you may seek feedback from the Chair of the selection panel after the selection process is finalised.
» See Recruitment and Selection Timeframes
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Our responsibilities
The NHMRC uses a streamlined recruitment and selection process which aims to fill a vacancy in the quickest practical timeframe. We notify all applicants, in writing, of their progress in the selection process. We aim to provide you with at least two days notice of your selection for interview.
» See Recruitment and Selection Timeframes
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Applicants’ responsibilities
It is recommended that you carefully consider your ability to meet the requirements of the advertised vacancy before preparing an application. If you will be unavailable for interview within the month following the closing date, you should advise the selection panel in your NHMRC Application Form . It is suggested that you provide alternative contact details to use in the event of your absence. You should also ensure you are able to meet the conditions of engagement outlined in Working at the NHMRC. If you wish to withdraw your application from consideration, please advise Recruitment in writing as soon as possible.
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Recruitment and selection timeframes
The NHMRC understands the benefit of a quick recruitment and selection process for all involved. The following table outlines the timeframes the NHMRC aims to meet in each recruitment activity. While these times follow a very streamlined approach to filling a vacancy, individual circumstances may cause a variation.
| Phase | Time from advertising | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Applications close | Day 14 | |
| Shortlisted candidates notified for next assessment (eg interview) | Day 20 | Unsuccessful applicants notified in writing. |
| Interviews completed | Day 27 | |
| Selection panel makes recommendation for delegate | Day 29 | If approved, successful applicant receives an offer. |
| Successful applicant commences with the NHMRC | Day 57 | Commencement date is subject to individual circumstances, and may be sooner. |
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