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What is a Merit Pool?

You received the email: "You have been placed in a merit pool."
It’s not a "No", but it’s not a job offer yet. Here is exactly what that means and how to use it to your advantage.

The Short Answer

A Merit Pool is a list of candidates who have been assessed as fully suitable for a role but were not ranked as the preferred candidate for the immediate vacancy.

In the Australian Public Service (APS), this pool is typically valid for 18 months from the date the vacancy was advertised. This means any agency can hire you for a similar role without you needing to go through another full interview process.

Why is it called a "Merit" Pool?

Government recruitment is based on the Merit Principle. This means the person selected must be the best person for the job. However, often there is more than one person who is "suitable" (capable of doing the job).

If there is one job and three suitable candidates:

This is actually a significant achievement. It means you passed the resume check, the testing, and the interview. You are "appointable."

18 Months Validity

Most APS merit pools are active for 18 months (formerly 12 months).

Transferable

Other agencies can access the pool to fill their own similar vacancies.

Fast Track

If pulled from the pool, you often skip the interview entirely.

Don't Just Wait: How to Use Your Status

1. Mention it in Cover Letters

If you apply for other roles at the same level (even in different departments), mention in your cover letter or pitch: "I am currently in a merit pool for an APS[X] [Role Title] position with [Agency Name]." This is verified proof of your capability.

2. Network Actively

Reach out to managers in the department where the pool is held. Let them know you are in the pool and keen for opportunities. Managers love hiring from pools because it saves them 3-6 months of recruitment work.

3. Ask for Feedback

You were good enough for the pool, but not the #1 pick. Ask the chair: "I'm thrilled to be in the pool. To help me be the preferred candidate next time, is there one specific area where I could demonstrate more depth?"

Stuck in the pool but not getting offers?

Being in the pool means you are capable. But to be the #1 choice, you need to polish your interview technique. We can help you bridge that final 5% gap.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Merit List and a Merit Pool?

Historically, a Merit List was a ranked list (1st, 2nd, 3rd), while a Merit Pool was unranked (a group of suitable people). However, most agencies now use the terms interchangeably or use a "Merit Pool" where candidates are categorized (e.g., Highly Suitable vs. Suitable).

Does a Merit Pool expire?

Yes. Under current APSC directions, a merit pool is generally valid for 18 months from the date the vacancy was notified in the Public Service Gazette. After this date, you cannot be hired from that specific pool.

Can another agency hire me from a Merit Pool?

Yes. This is called "sharing the merit pool." If Agency B has a vacancy for a similar role at the same classification, they can request access to Agency A's merit pool to fill their role.

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