Interview Tips

Example APS3/APS4 Interview Questions

Even if you are an experienced interviewee, this information will be a valuable refresher.

This is well worth an investment of 10 minutes to increase your chances of securing a job.

People who perform well in interviews are the ones best prepared.

Practice and prepare

Practice your responses to typical job interview questions.  Think of concrete examples you can use to highlight your skills.  Providing evidence of your achievements is a great way to promote your suitability.

Examples of questions that could be asked for APS3 and APS4 positions could include:

  • What are your main motivations for moving on from your current position?
  • Describe a situation you found challenging. What did you do to handle the situation?
  • Tell me what technology you are experienced with. How long does it take you to learn a new system? What steps do you take to learn a new system?
  • Tell me about a situation when you needed to maintain discretion and you did so successfully.
  • What special skills do you have that will help you do well in this role?
  • What would you consider is your biggest professional accomplishment to date?
  • Can you share a piece of constructive feedback a manager has given you? What adjustments, if any did you have to make because of this feedback?
  • How do you prioritise projects with lots of tasks with similar deadlines?
  • What do you enjoy most about administration work?
  • What would you consider to be your strengths?
  • What would you consider to be your weaknesses or challenges?
  • What is your experience in working with individuals with a disability? (NDIA only)
  • Records Management experience, experience using TRIM or other Content Management Systems, ability to adhere to undertake administrative tasks in accordance with legislation and departmental policies and procedures.
  • Data entry skills, attention to detail, accuracy and ability to meet deadlines.
  • Executive Assistant – ability to multi-task, undertake administrative support and coordination of tasks, diary management, coordinating travel arrangements, preparing correspondence, including minute taking, and records management (using TRIM).
    • What systems have you used in previous roles, travel software, and records management systems?
    • Have you reported to multiple managers or supervisors? If so, how did you juggle the priorities for each?
  • Communications roles – experience using content management systems, editing website systems and producing communication material, attention to detail, what type of software programs used, time management and organisational skills, experience adhering to communications strategy plans, guidelines and standards.
  • HR – Experience managing recruitment processes, onboarding, inductions, contracts management and employment offers, industrial relations matters.
  • Payroll – Systems used, Government/Private experience.