Selection for employment within the Defence Intelligence and Security Group (I&S Group) is based on merit which considers the abilities, qualifications, experience, personal qualities and potential for future development of applicants. The merit principle precludes patronage or favouritism. It aims to ensure the selection process is fair, open and in accordance with workplace diversity principles. For more information on the Australian Public Service (APS) merit principle, please visit the Australian Public Service Commission website.
The I&S Group advocate the use of merit lists. Applicants who are found suitable for an advertised position but are not the preferred candidate may be recorded on a merit list which is used to fill similar positions that become vacant within 12 months of the original employment opportunity notice.
To be considered for public service employment, applicants must hold Australian citizenship or be eligible for conditional engagement. Conditional engagement may be offered when an applicant is eligible for and has applied for citizenship. Applicants should also be aware that all positions within the I&S Group require some level of security clearance, which also requires Australian citizenship.
Some positions will require mandatory qualifications or suitable relevant experience to fulfil the duties of the position. If so, this will be advised in the selection documentation and you will need to provide evidence of your qualifications with your application or state your work experience that is relevant to the duties of the position.
All positions within the I&S Group will require some level of security clearance to be eligible for employment, which will include a variety of background checks. Before applying you will need to consider whether you are willing to provide personal information in order to meet these requirements. Failure to meet the minimum security requirements of an advertised position will result in your application being unsuccessful.
Depending on the level of clearance required for the position, Defence may look into police records, employment history, credit ratings, as well as contact professional and personal referees to provide character references. All positions within DIGO, DIO and DSD require a Top Secret Positive Vet security clearance, which requires you to have a 10-year verifiable background and undergo a psychological assessment of your suitability to work in the Defence intelligence environment.
Psychological assessments are mandatory for all potential and existing DIGO, DIO and DSD employees, including military personnel and contractors. For security reasons, individual feedback regarding the Psychological Assessment will not be given to applicants. Learn more about the Psychological Assessment (PDF).