I have applied for two type of position with the State Library of NSW. One internally advertised position and one open application. The open position was by for took the most time to process. the State Library is of course a Government body and its recruitment procedures are wrapped up in a lot of bureaucratic policies and red tape. The internal position was quite quickly processed, as the position needed to be filled. Both required the applicant to address 7 - 10 selection criteria in writing. Standard stuff regarding Computer, customer service, problem solving skills team work etc. I would say succinct 300 to 500 word answers for each. Interviews are conducted by the immediate supervisor or project manager, and an HR recruitment officer. Questions will be determined by the position, but expect about 6 questions. Teamwork, customer service, Attention to detail. You will be expected to give examples of your work. Look up the Star System of Job Interviews. Interview policies is straight forward, they don't want to trick you, and are usually very friendly to make the process as painless as possible. One fault in applying for open positions is that it is most the case that they already have someone in mind, a current employee, and that you might be wasting a lot of time and energy for nothing. All permanent positions have to be advertised to the public, so by law they have to go through the motions of interviews, reviews etc... but the position is filled already in theory. But apply -- do a good interview and make a good impression and you will make it onto the Short List and even if you don't get the position advertised, their is a chance you will receive an offer for temporary work when something comes up. There is a lot of work available, a lot of backlogs to be caught up on... so try and get a foot in the door and make a good impression.