Submitting your application

At Surf Coast Shire Council, a career is more than just a job – it’s a chance to make a real difference in our community.

We are committed to creating an innovative, respectful, and supportive workplace where our people thrive and live our values. Together, we work to deliver exceptional services that positively impact our community.

* we work together * we see opportunity * we do what we say * we make a difference *

View current opportunities

If you’ve found an opportunity that is the perfect next-step in your career, then simply submit your application. Here's how:

Application checklist

To ensure your application is considered, please submit the following documents by the closing date:

  • Cover letter
    Introduce yourself and express your interest in the role. Highlight key aspects of your experience and enthusiasm for joining our team.
  • Statement addressing the key selection criteria
    Review the position description and respond to each criterion with clear examples of how your qualifications, skills, and experience meet the requirements of the role.
  • Resume
    Provide an up-to-date resume showcasing your career history, achievements, and relevant skills.

Please ensure you combine your cover letter and Key Selection Criteria Statement, into a single document before submitting your application online.

How to apply

Please note that applications must be sent in directly from the applicant and not through a third party or recruitment agency. Applications received from third parties will not be considered.

  1. Read the position description
    It is important to understand the role, its requirements, and expectations. Research the position to ensure it aligns with your career aspirations.
  2. Contact us
    If you have questions about the position, reach out to the contact person listed in the job advertisement. If you have general employment questions, contact the People and Culture team on 5261 0600.
  3. Online application
    Submit your application by clicking the "Apply" button in the job advertisement. Enter your personal details and attach your combined document.
  4. Save and submit
    You can save your application at any time and return to complete it. Remember, incomplete applications will be deleted after 14 days.

Stand out with these tips

Writing a compelling cover letter:

  • Begin with a positive and engaging statement about your passion for the role.
  • Use an action-skill-example structure to connect your abilities to the job.
  • Reaffirm your suitability and end with a call-to-action.
  • Keep it concise—no longer than one page.

Addressing the Key Selection Criteria:

  • Use the STAR approach to craft your responses:
    Situation: Describe the context.|
    Task: Explain the problem or objective.
    Action: Outline what you did and the skills you used.
    Result: Highlight the outcome.

  •  Provide detailed, relevant examples to help demonstrate your suitability for the role.

Crafting Your Resume

  • Keep it clear, concise, and no longer than three pages.
  • Focus on your achievements and tailor your experience to the role.
  • Use consistent formatting and professional fonts like Arial or Calibri.
  • Include contact details at the top, and structure your employment history with the most recent experience first.

Equal employment opportunity

Surf Coast Shire Council is committed to being an equal opportunity employer. We provide fair, equitable, and non-discriminatory consideration to all applicants, regardless of age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion, or any other characteristic protected by law. We also acknowledge our proactive responsibility to comply with equal opportunity and workplace-related legislation while striving to eliminate all forms of discrimination.

Find out about our commitment to diversity