Apprentice toolbox

The apprentice toolbox has been prepared for people who want to apply for an apprenticeship at Roads and Maritime Services (replacing Roads and Traffic Authority).

In the toolbox, we'll explain eligibility requirements for jobs at Roads and Maritime Services (replacing Roads and Traffic Authority), how to choose the right apprenticeship, and how the recruitment process works.

These pages will guide you through the process of applying for an apprenticeship at Roads and Maritime Services (replacing Roads and Traffic Authority).

If this is your first application for a full-time job, the application process can be a little overwhelming.

We want you to be comfortable during the recruitment process, so you can really show us what you're capable of and what you are passionate about.

We've also included some general tips, including how to write your resumé and the best ways to present yourself at an interview.

Are you eligible?

To be eligible for an apprenticeship you:

Must have completed Year 10 and obtained the School Certificate or equivalent certificate.
Must be at least 16 years of age when starting your apprenticeship
Agree for Roads and Maritime Services (replacing Roads and Traffic Authority) to do a Criminal & Investigation Check
Must be a citizen or permanent resident of Australia.

If you have completed a Certificate III or higher in the last seven years, you may not be eligible for an Roads and Maritime Services (replacing Roads and Traffic Authority) apprenticeship. You would need to let us know if this is the case.

Choosing the right apprenticeship

The first thing to do is to look closely at the requirements of the apprenticeships - both the work and the training requirements. Do these match what you are looking for in a job?

Next, speak to your parents and careers counsellor - they know you well enough to know what is likely to work for you.

The recruitment process

There are four steps in the recruitment process:

The application - you can apply either online or in writing (hard copy that you post to us).
The interview - if your application is strong, you will be selected for an interview.
Testing - if you succeed at the interview, you will be asked to do some tests to check on your literacy and mathematics.
Referees - if you are still on the short-list of applicants after the tests, Roads and Maritime Services (replacing Roads and Traffic Authority) will contact your referees to see what they have to say about you.
Offer - if you're successful, a formal offer of a position will be sent to you.

Writing your resumé

Make sure you have included all the necessary information in your resumé. Make sure you read it carefully to avoid any errors in spelling or any other issues.

Information in resumé is usually set out as follows:

Personal information - your name, age and contact details
Work experience - where you have worked, how long you were there, your job title and duties.
Education - where you have studied (ie 2004-2008 Hurstville Boys High chool) and the subjects you studied while you were there (eg: 2 unit English etc).
References - the names of people who can vouch for your character, skills and experience.
Skills - include any skills you may have learnt at school or in out-of-school activities that you feel will help you as a trainee.

Make sure you include a valid and up-to-date school report. We will also need a copy of your school certificate, or equivalent, once you receive it.

Cover letters

We don't require cover letters from applicants, but you can include one if you like. You may use the cover letter to highlight any experience or other relevant information about yourself.

It's best to address a covering letter "To whom it may concern" or "Dear Sir/Madam"

References

Roads and Maritime Services (replacing Roads and Traffic Authority) requires two references.

Check that you have the correct contact details for your referees. Ask their permission so they known to expect a phone call.

If you've had a part time job see if your supervisor is willing to be a referee. Teachers, sports coaches or family friends can also be good options. Your parents can't be referees for you.

Tips for a great resumé

Precision: Make sure your resumé is no more than two pages long. Ensure that it is precise and only includes relevant information (where and when you went to primary school is irrelevant).
Accuracy: Don't be tempted to include experiences that you don't really have - you can expect interviewers to ask you about these.
Use technology: There are some great resumé wizards attached to word processor software, allowing you to focus on the content more than the layout.
Order: List any places you have worked in date order.
Research: If you are unsure of what to include in your resumé, hit the internet. There are many sites dedicated to helping you writing the best possible resumé.

Presentation at interview

It takes three seconds to form a first impression, so dressing for success will help you make sure your first impression is a good one.

Roads and Maritime Services (replacing Roads and Traffic Authority) aims to ensure that the application process allows applicants to display all that they have to offer.

Roads and Maritime Services (replacing Roads and Traffic Authority) expects applicants dress in business attire, even if the job you are applying for will mostly have you in uniform or a work uniform.

If you own a suit that fits and is well ironed wear it – if you don’t, a business shirt and business pants/skirt are also acceptable.
Casual gear such as jeans and a t-shirt are never acceptable.

For men –

If you wear a tie make sure it matches your suit. Novelty ties are best saved for special occasions!
Make sure your shoes are polished and wear dark socks.
If you have facial hair, make sure that it is well groomed.

For women –

If you wear heels, make sure that they are comfortable, especially for the assessment centre where you will be on your feet for extended periods of time.
If you choose to wear a skirt, the best length would be knee to mid calf.
When wearing makeup make sure it is appropriate for a day in the office, not a night out.