Merit Pools and the Australian Public Service (APS)

FAQs grouped by topic to help you understand what pools are, how they work, and what to expect.

Basics

Definitions and the “why” behind pools.

Why does this website exist?

This website was made to help job applicants understand merit pools within the Australian Public Service.

Numerous threads on Reddit are constantly created asking the same, similar or common questions. This website is intended to collate them.

What is a merit pool?

A merit pool is a list of candidates assessed as suitable (and competitive) for a role or similar roles, created from a recruitment process.

What is a talent pool?

A talent pool is typically a broader list of candidates identified for potential future opportunities, sometimes across multiple roles or teams.

Why are these pools created?
  • In many instances, there is a need to recruit several people at once, as part of a bulk recruitment.
  • People may decline an offer (because of their own circumstances) so being able to leverage someone else from the pool is important and quicker than starting a new recruitment process.
  • There may be similar roles that may also require people quickly. If positions are similar, then using a pool may be quicker and easier.

Eligibility & suitability

What “suitable” means and how it’s applied.

Does being in a pool mean I’ll definitely get an offer?

Not necessarily

It generally means you’ve been assessed as suitable, but offers depend on vacancies, priorities, and role fit.

I'm based in X - Do I have a better chance than being based in Y?

Not necessarily

It will depend on things like:

  • availability of desks in specific offices
  • location of the type of work. Some agencies may do specific work in a specific city, region, office.

Offers & next steps

What happens after you’re placed in a pool.

What might I be asked to provide if contacted from a pool?
  • Confirmation of interest and availability
  • Referee details (or updated referees)
  • Evidence of qualifications or clearance eligibility (role dependent)
  • Any updated resume details
Should I follow up with the agency when placed in a pool?

No

You will be contacted by the agency IF and WHEN an offer becomes available.

Do other government agencies use each other's merit pools?

Sometimes

There is no guarantee another agency will look at existing merit pools.

Some agencies have specific requirements for job positions, or may prefer to run their own recruitment process.

Can I decline a position when offered?

Yes

You can decline an offer.

Timeframes & expiry

How long pools last and what “expiry” means.

When could I get an offer from a merit pool?

Potentially any time while the merit pool is open. Usually up to 12 months, sometimes 18 months.

How long do pools last?

Pool duration varies by organisation and recruitment round. Some expire after a fixed period; others may be refreshed regularly. Most are 12 months, some limited circumstances, up to 18 months.

Applying for other jobs

Applying to other merit pools, applying for other jobs

Should I apply for other jobs while in a merit pool?

Yes

Merit pools do not mean you will get a job. Apply for other jobs.

Should I mention in other job applications I am in a merit pool?

For positions at the same level

  • It depends
  • It may be worthwhile bringing it up in application or interview. Provide information about the agency, position and any position/reference number.

For positions at a higher level than the merit pool

  • No

For positions that are completely different than the positioned applied in merit pool

  • No

More resources

Links to other sources

Where can I find more information?

Australian Public Service Commission (APSC):

APS Jobs:

Australian Public Service on Reddit:

NSW Government:

VIC Government: