Application Process & Interviews at Digital Transformation Agency

The interview process was relatively technical, rigorous and quite opaque. It was not run by the DTA, it was run by the ABS. I was a data graduate which meant I was first vetted based on my qualifications (which were tested in interviews), and then once that was proven I was sorted based on my preferences and those of agencies.

It was a long process. I think I remember applying for general graduate programs early in the year of 2023, and I didn't hear back from the DTA until late November.

I came into contact with the DTA through a Merit-List graduate program run by a separate agency. Once I received contact from the DTA, the overall interview process was fairly straightforward, and they kept in contact with me once I had accepted the offer.

For me I had a great time with the recruitment process and was one of the easier hiring processes for me. I remember applying through APSC and being interviewed by them. They were very supportive and assisted in redirecting my answers if I misinterpreted a question or took time to answer. I didnt do any other assessments from memory, and then I was offered the position by DTA.

Note: I did all interviews and assessments through a broader government program so I cannot comment on this. My rating is based on the small part of the recruitment process I actually experienced through my workplace.

I came in through a merit-list from a graduate program so my process of entering the DTA was a lot more informal.

The hiring process was not facilitated by my company but by Service Australia's whole of government graduate merit list. The recruitment phase was quite rushed for me having to start a new job in a different city in a short timeframe but there was ample support available to me.

The recruitment process took several months as it was managed by another agency.

The assessment process was straightforward, but the waiting time between each stage is too long (with at least a month in between every stage).

The process with DTA is simple and direct, but APS is very difficult and complex (for progression to the next level)

The initial application, one-page speech, face to face interview and speed dating interview

A unique opportunity to apply to several federal government agencies simultaneously.

I went through the Australian Government digital graduate program supported by the DTA and the interview process was very fun as it was hosted in Canberra at Telstra Tower. There was a meet and greet with each agency and an interview with a panel.

I attended a face-to-face interview followed by a speed dating session with my agency.

As a Digital grad, we were assessed in several stages including the written assessment, individual interview and group date and networking event.

The application process involved a written assessment followed by a group panel interview and speed dating.

The process was straightforward

By Digital interview and speed dating with all agencies

I was recruited through the Digital graduate program, thus I cannot comment on my organization�s recruiting process. In saying that, the Digital graduate program recruiting process what great

Australian Government Digital Graduate Program > On-site Interview > Offer Received

Mostly questions that involved STAR responses, provide example of a time when .....

Again, my interview was done through a broader government program. I cannot recall exact questions but I did really appreciate that we were given the questions then given ten minutes to think about them and take some notes before the interview, and the interviewers were great. Unlike some other interviews I have done, I felt like I was being interviewed to assess how good I would be at the job, not how good I am at being interviewed.

Cannot remember specifically but my company did not interview me.

A conflict situation encountered and how do you solve it.

Questions about previous experience, current capabilities, and future goals. Questions about character and personality.

I can't recall but they were government IT-related and mostly about my technological interests.

The usual questions

Behavioural questions

Questions about my interest in IT, achievement, Teamwork

What skill does require in the workplace and which area of IT they working?

The questions were mainly to describe ourselves and what skills we had.

Behavioural, standard STAR questions

Again, I can't really say much due to how I applied. I would suggest researching the company beforehand, being clear on why they want to work there, and, if they find interviews really hard/anxiety-inducing, having a session with an interview coach to practice.

Research the DTA as much as possible so you are aware of in general what the DTA does but also just be confident in yourself.

Connect your personal vision to the agency's vision. Why do you want to join this agency?

Get an understanding of the different parts of the organisation and what their functions are. Get an in-depth view of the area you are applying for. Have an outside work connection to aviation or the area you are applying for.

Understand the expectations of the Federal Government. Prepare accounts of your experiences that demonstrate the qualities your given agency looks for (e.g. What have you done and how did it turn out?).

Since I didn't apply directly and I was chosen by the organisation, I don't have any specific tips except to show enthusiasm. Also, it helps to read up Corporate Plans for any public service job.

Be enthusiastic

Do research on agencies that are attending the speed dating especially those which you are interested to work for and be prepared to answer their questions about their department.

Start researching the agencies that you want to join. Have a look at their annual report and pick out key points on their accomplishments. Also, stay up to date with trends in IT.

Answer in detail, Be genuine

Communication skill

I would recommend they review what they had completed at uni and have an idea of where they would like to be placed for their rotation.

Get to know the products and services government offers. Go on the websites.