For Candidates
Resources for IT professionals
Practical tips and official resources for your next role
Whether you are preparing for an interview, weighing up a contract or checking your entitlements, these resources will help. Where rules apply, we link to the official source so you always have the current information.
This page is general information only, not legal or financial advice.
CVs for IT roles
- Lead with outcomes. For each role, show what you delivered, the scale and the technologies or methods you used.
- Tailor it. Match your CV to the role and reflect the language used in the position description.
- Make skills easy to find. A short summary and a clear skills section help hiring managers and recruiters see your fit quickly.
- Keep it relevant. Focus on skills and experience. You do not need to include personal details such as age, marital status or a photo.
Security clearances for government roles
Many Commonwealth and some state government IT roles require a security clearance, such as Baseline, Negative Vetting 1 (NV1) or Negative Vetting 2 (NV2). Clearances are processed by the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA) and must be sponsored by a government agency or approved organisation. You cannot apply for one yourself.
If you already hold a clearance, include its level and status on your CV. Learn more at AGSVA.
Interview preparation
- Behavioural questions. Prepare examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on what you personally did.
- Technical discussions. Be ready to talk through your approach to problems, not just the tools you know.
- Government roles. Many applications and interviews are assessed against the role’s key capabilities or selection criteria, so prepare an example for each.
- Video interviews. Test your camera, audio and connection beforehand, and choose a quiet, well-lit space.
Workplace rights and entitlements
- National Employment Standards. The NES set minimum conditions for employees, including leave and notice. See Fair Work Ombudsman.
- Pay and awards. Check minimum pay rates and awards with the Fair Work Ombudsman.
- Superannuation. Employers must pay the superannuation guarantee, currently 12% of ordinary time earnings, regardless of how much you earn. Check the current rules at the ATO.
Contracting through an agency
When you contract through a labour hire provider such as Talexa, you are typically engaged by the provider and placed with the client, rather than working for the client directly. Before you sign, check:
- your rate, how and when you are paid, and how superannuation is handled
- the contract length, extension options and notice period
- any restraint or non-compete clauses (Talexa’s contracts do not include them)
If you work as an independent contractor through your own ABN or company, see the Fair Work guidance for independent contractors.
Professional development
Recognised certifications can strengthen your application in a competitive market, for example cloud certifications (AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud), security certifications (such as CISSP or CISM), and delivery and agile certifications (such as PRINCE2, PMP or SAFe).
For career planning and training options, visit Your Career.
Job market insights
For current information on employment trends, skills in demand and occupations across Australia, see Jobs and Skills Australia. We are also happy to share what we are seeing in the IT market when we speak with you.
Work rights for visa holders
If you hold a visa, your right to work and any conditions depend on your visa type. Visa rules change, so always check your current work rights through the Department of Home Affairs visa entitlement checking service (VEVO). Employers are required to confirm work rights before you start.
