The Merit Principle: How APS Hiring Decisions Are Really Made

What the Merit Principle actually is

Every APS job ad mentions "merit-based selection" as if it's self-explanatory. It isn't. The Merit Principle is a legal requirement under the *Public Service Act 1999*, enforced by the Australian Public Service Commissioner, and it shapes every decision a panel makes — from the questions they're allowed to ask to the records they have to keep.

The principle is enshrined in section 10A of the Act and operationalised through the *Australian Public Service Commissioner's Directions 2022*. It defines merit as a comparative assessment: you aren't scored against an absolute bar, you're scored against other candidates on the published criteria.

Why this changes how you should apply

If you've come from the private sector, you're probably used to selling yourself broadly. APS panels don't score "broadly impressive". They score evidence against specific criteria, in a documented process they'll have to defend if challenged.

That means three things:

• Generic enthusiasm scores zero. Specific, criterion-aligned examples score.
• Panels are required to ask every candidate the same questions. You can't talk your way around weak evidence.
• Decisions are documented. Unsuccessful candidates can request feedback, and in some circumstances those records can be obtained under FOI.

What insiders know

• Reasonable adjustments for disability are required by law and don't count against your score — but you have to ask.
• Direct appointments outside merit are limited to narrow exceptions (machinery of government changes, redeployment, some non-ongoing roles).
• Merit applies even when you transfer between agencies at level, though the process is shorter (see our section 26 transfers guide).
• Acting opportunities under 12 months at the same classification can sometimes be filled without a full merit process.

How GovPrep helps

The Merit Principle rewards specific, criterion-aligned evidence. GovPrep maps your STAR responses against each selection criterion before you walk in, so the panel's scoring grid is already filled in your favour.