Frequently asked questions

How do I apply?

All applications for current vacancies need to be submitted through the eRecruit portal.

For detailed instructions on submitting an application please view the eRecruit Job Applicant Guide

Who can apply for a position at Mackay Regional Council?

Mackay Regional Council is an equal employment opportunity employer who values diversity. We encourage applications from all backgrounds including women, mature age applicants, school leavers and members of indigenous and other minority groups.

I am an international applicant – am I still eligible?

All applicants with valid working rights in Australia are eligible to apply.

Is my application confidential?

All applications and enquiries are strictly private and confidential and will only be accessed by the Recruitment Team and the authorised persons for each vacancy.

Can I send my resume to be considered for future vacancies?

You will need to submit an application for each vacancy you would like to be considered for. All applications need to be submitted through the eRecruit portal on council’s website.

Can I submit a hard copy application?

All applications need to be submitted through the eRecruit portal on council’s website.

I don’t have an email address or computer access – what can I do?

All applications must be submitted through the eRecruit portal. Applications are only accepted via online submission. This will require the use of a desktop computer or laptop as tablets and smartphones aren’t compatible with the Mackay Regional Council e-Recruitment online submission software. There are computer facilities available at local libraries or if you are registered with a local job agency they can assist you with your online submission.

What do I need to submit in my application?

The requirements for each application will vary based on the role. The requested documents for each particular role can be found in the vacancy advertisement. In most cases, your application will require a minimum of a cover letter and resume. Many roles will also require applicants to submit a response to the selection criteria.

What is a selection criteria?

Every position at council has a selection criteria which can be found on the last page of the position description. The position description for each vacancy is available in the ‘Download Attachments’ section. The selection criteria is a list of the skills, qualifications and experience required to perform each role.

Applicants may be required to provide a brief or full response to the selection criteria depending on the vacancy. A response to the selection criteria should include details on how you have demonstrated the criteria with specific examples from your work history.

The selection criteria is used by the hiring panel to assess how suitable each applicant is for a role.

What should I include in my cover letter?

Your cover letter should include;

• your contact details
• why you are applying for the position,
• what you will bring to the role,
• a brief summary of your experience and;
• how your experience will suit the role you’re applying for.

Your cover letter can also be used to address any gaps in your resume, such as employment gaps, your intention to relocate or the reason for changing industries.

What should I include in my resume or CV?

Your resume should outline your work history and any experience relevant to the position you are applying for.

Your resume must include;

• your contact details, including a phone number and email address
• your work history including dates of employment, your responsibilities in each role and any considerable achievements;
• a list of any relevant tickets or qualifications and
• your references with their contact details.

If you are including references in your application, ensure you have asked their permission before listing them.

Do I need to upload copies of my licences, qualifications or tickets?

Copies of your qualifications, licences or tickets are not required during the application stage. It is recommended that you do not upload copies of these documents as it can make the file size of your documents too large and cause errors when submitting your application. Copies of these documents can be brought to your interview if successful in being shortlisted for the role.

It is sufficient to list your licences, tickets and qualifications in your resume.

Should I include a list of referees in my application?

Though your referees are not required as part of your initial application, it is recommended you have a list of referees prepared as they will be required if you are invited to an interview. If you do not have current, contactable referees available this may delay the recruitment process. If you are including references, ensure you have gained their permission first. Referees will not be contacted without your permission.

How do I know if my application has been received?

You will receive an automated email from the system when the recruitment team have received your application. Your status in eRecruit will also update to either ‘Applied’ or ‘Application Under Review’.

How do I find out more about the position?

To find out more information about the position, please review the Position Description that is attached to each vacancy in the ‘Downloads’ section. If you require further information, please call the Recruitment Team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

What time do applications close?

The closing date for vacancies is displayed on the advertisement. Applications close at midnight on the closing date unless otherwise specified.

Can I submit a late application?

It is recommended you apply for vacancies as soon as possible. In most cases, late applications will not be accepted.

How do I change my password?

To reset your password, login to the eRecruit portal and select ‘Change my Password’ on the left side of the screen.

I am unable to login to my eRecruit account – what do I do?

If you are unable to login to the eRecruit portal, you may be using the incorrect password. Select ‘Forgot your password?’ on the login screen and enter your email address and the answers to your security questions. If you are still unable to login to your eRecruit account, please contact the Recruitment team on 1300 622 529.

How long will the process take?

When advertising has closed, please allow up to two weeks for the hiring panel to review applications and finalise a shortlist. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by phone. Applicants who are not shortlisted will receive an email notification on the outcome of their application.

The recruitment process can take up to eight weeks to be finalised from advertising the vacancy until a formal employment offer is made to the successful candidate.

What is involved in the interview process?

If you are shortlisted for a vacancy, you will be required to complete an interview with the hiring panel. Based on the availability of the panel and the applicant, the interview may be in person, or via phone or video conference.

We understand interviews can be stressful and nerve-wracking, however it is important to remember an interview is simply a conversation so we can understand more about your work experience.

Most interview questions will be based around the selection criteria from the position description. We recommend preparing for your interview and reviewing the selection criteria. It may also be useful to list specific examples or experiences you have that demonstrate your ability to meet each criteria. This can assist in prompting you during your interview.

We may also ask general questions to get to know you, such as your motivation or interest in working for council, what your strengths and weaknesses are and why you are leaving your current role.

When answering interview questions, it is important to be clear and specific when giving examples. It is important to let the panel know if you do not understand a question or would like the panel to repeat the question. An interview is a two-way conversation and you are welcome to ask questions throughout the interview.

Will you tell me if I am unsuccessful?

All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application via email or phone. The status of your application can be viewed by logging into your eRecruit account and selecting ‘My Applications’ on the left side of the screen.

What pre-employment checks are involved?

During the recruitment process, applicants may be subject to any of the following; reference checks, medical assessments, drug and alcohol testing, criminal history checking, qualification verification, identification checks and psychometric testing.

Why should I work for Mackay Regional Council?

Council is an exciting organisation providing a variety of opportunities across a diverse range of industries. Council offers competitive remuneration packages including attractive salary, hours, employee benefits and training and development opportunities. Relocation assistance may also be available for some positions. For more information about the benefits of working for council, visit http://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/about_council/careers/careers_at_council

What hours would I work?

Council work hours vary based on each position. The roster of each position can be found in the job vacancy.

Does council offer apprenticeships or traineeships?

Council has two apprentice and trainee intakes each year. For further information regarding the trainee and apprentice intake, please visit http://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/about_council/careers/trainees_and_apprenticeships.

How can I complete work experience at Mackay Regional Council?

Mackay Regional Council offers work experience in a variety of areas and industries.

For further information or to apply for work experience, please visit http://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/about_council/careers/work_experience.

Can I volunteer at Mackay Regional Council?

Mackay Regional Council offers volunteer opportunities in a variety of areas and industries. For further information or to apply for work experience, please visit  http://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/about_council/careers/volunteering_at_council