Templates - unsuccessful applicant correspondence
Examples of correspondence that can be sent unsuccessful applicants are included below. It is
good practice for APS agencies to advise applicants of the outcome of their application and to
also provide applicants with the opportunity to seek further feedback regarding their application.
Applicant was unsuccessful but found suitable and placed on an order of merit
Dear <Applicant Name>
I refer to your application for <Internal Reference Number>, <Classification>, <Job Title>
position with <Agency>.
The selection process has now been completed. Unfortunately, you were not successful on this
occasion, however the selection committee rated you as suitable for employment at the <relevant
classification> in <Agency> and you have been placed on order of merit.
This order of merit is valid for 12 months from the date the position first appeared in the
Australian Public Service Employment Gazette (APSjobs) and may be used to fill similar
positions at this level should any vacancies become available.
The <relevant work area> will contact you if a position becomes available to see if you are still
interested and available to work in the agency. Should your contact details change please let us
know and we can update your details accordingly.
If you would like to obtain feedback on your individual assessment, please contact <relevant
contact person> via <relevant e-mail address or phone number> to arrange a suitable time.
Thank you for your interest in applying for this position. We strongly encourage you to apply for
other opportunities with <Agency>. You can search for current opportunities via <relevant link>
and log on using your User ID and password.
Yours sincerely
<contact details>
Applicant interviewed and not rated suitable
Dear <Applicant Name>
I refer to your application for <Internal Reference Number>, <Classification>, <Job Title>
position with <Agency>.
The selection process has now been completed. The quality and standard of candidates for this
position was very high and unfortunately on this occasion you have not been successful.
If you would like to obtain feedback on your individual assessment, please contact the
Chairperson via <relevant e-mail address or phone number> to arrange a suitable time.
Thank you for your interest in applying for this position. We strongly encourage you to apply for
other opportunities with <Agency>. You can search for current opportunities via <relevant link>
and log on using your User ID and password.
Yours sincerely
<contact details>
Applicant not shortlisted
Dear <Applicant Name>
I refer to your application for <Internal Reference Number>, <Classification>, <Job Title>
position with the <Agency>.
The short listing process has now been completed. The quality and standard of candidates for
this position was very high and unfortunately on this occasion you have not been successful.
If you would like to obtain feedback on your individual assessment, please contact the selection
panel chairperson via email <insert relevant e-mail address> to arrange a suitable time.
Once again thank you for your interest in applying for this position. We strongly encourage you
to apply for other opportunities with the department. You can search for current opportunities via
<relevant link> and log on using your User ID and password.
Yours sincerely
<contact details>
The above correspondence examples were adapted from template supplied by the Department of Human Services.