Join our team

At the Department of Justice, our recruitment is guided by fairness, transparency, and a commitment to equity, diversity, respect, and inclusion. We select the eligible person best suited to each role to ensure the best outcomes for our department and Queensland.

Our roles are advertised on SmartJobs. You can create email alerts on SmartJobs to be notified when new vacancies arise.

To stay up to date with the latest news, vacancies, and insights into our team and work, follow us on LinkedIn

How to apply for a job

Step 1: Create an account

To apply, you need to create a ‘My SmartJob’ account on the Smart Jobs and Careers

Step 2: Find the job and click ‘Apply online’

Use your SmartJobs account to apply online.

Make sure you submit your application before the closing date (midnight on the day it closes).

Late applications may not be accepted.

Step 3: Read the job ad and role description carefully

The job ad and role description will tell you what the role involves and what the selection panel is looking for. This includes:

  • eligibility requirements (e.g., being an Australian citizen or having working rights to work in Australia)
  • suitability requirements skills or experience
  • any special conditions or qualifications (e.g., being admitted as solicitor in Australia).

Step 4: Prepare your application

Most applications will need:

  • a current resume (3–4 pages maximum)
  • a cover letter tailored to the specific role
  • any other documents listed in the job ad.

Make sure your cover letter clearly explains how your skills and experience relate to the role. Don’t use a generic letter. Make it specific!

Step 5: Submit your application

Before you submit:

  1. Check the closing date.
  2. Make sure you’ve attached everything that’s required.
  3. Double-check your contact details are correct.

Hand-delivered applications are not accepted. If you're having trouble submitting online, contact the Customer Support Team on 1300 146 370 (Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm).

Step 6: Ask questions if you need help

If you have questions about the role or application process, contact the person listed in the job ad. They are there to help.

What happens after you apply

Step 1: Shortlisting

The selection panel will read all applications and shortlist candidates who best meet the job requirements. They’ll check whether you meet any eligibility requirements and look at how well your skills and experience suit the role.

Step 2: Interviews and assessments

If you’re shortlisted, you may be invited to:

  • an interview (in person or via Microsoft Teams)
  • other assessments or tasks related to the role.

This is your chance to show why you're a great fit! Read up on the role and the department beforehand.

If you need any adjustments to help you participate (for example, due to a disability), let us know—we want you to feel comfortable, confident and be able to shine.

Step 3: Checks and declarations

We will:

  • contact your referees
  • conduct a criminal history check
  • ask you to declare any serious disciplinary history if you currently or previously worked for the Queensland Government
  • ask if you’ve ever worked as a lobbyist.

Step 4: Job offer

If you’re successful, you’ll receive a verbal offer. You can:

  • discuss your start date, salary, and any flexible work arrangements or adjustments you need to help you shine in the workplace
  • request a formal letter of offer.

Note, you may have to complete a probation period.

Step 5: If you’re not successful

Please don’t be discouraged. You’re welcome to ask for feedback to support future applications.

We are not able to provide feedback until the process is finished and the successful person appointed.

All unsuccessful applicants will receive an email once the process has been finalised.