Learn the Rules. Gain Clarity. Play with Confidence.
A practical guide to navigating APS recruitment with clarity, structure and confidence.
Applying for roles in the APS can feel confusing, overwhelming and inconsistent. It doesn’t have to be.
This book breaks down the process into clear frameworks so you can prepare properly, present your experience with confidence, and perform at your best.
How This Book Helps You Through APS Recruitment
This is not just a guide to recruitment. It is a practical system to help you approach APS job applications with clarity and confidence.
Inside the book, you will learn how to:
- Understand the APS recruitment process and what panels are really assessing
- Use the Integrated Leadership System (ILS) to position your experience at the right level
- Write strong applications using clear, evidence based examples
- Prepare for interviews with structure and confidence
- Reflect, learn, and improve after each process
Whether you are applying for your first APS role or aiming for EL positions, this book gives you a clear, repeatable approach that you can implement in your next APS recruitment journey.
Built From Real Experience
This book is based on real experience of APS recruitment processes, drawn from:
- Panel Chair, panel member and scribe experience
- Coaching professionals across all APS levels
- Supporting candidates through successful applications, interviews and promotions
“Most people are unsuccessful in recruitment not because they lack ability, but because they haven’t learned the rules of the game.”
Brendon Le Lievre
About Brendon
Brendon Le Lievre is a leadership coach, facilitator and former APS professional who has supported hundreds of candidates through recruitment processes.
He brings a practical, experience based approach to career development, combining:
- real panel insights
- coaching expertise
- deep understanding of APS systems
His focus is simple: helping capable people present their value clearly in structured environments.
Get your copy of “The APS Recruitment Game”
Available in paperback and Kindle. Start learning the rules and preparing with confidence.
APS6 to EL1 Comparison Table
This resource provides a side-by-side comparison of the APS6 and EL1 Integrated Leadership System (ILS) capabilities. It is designed to help APS employees, managers, and aspirant leaders better understand the shift in responsibilities and expectations when moving from APS6 to EL1.
This table is based on my interpretation of publicly available APSC resources, APS6 and EL1 ILS documents. It is my view of the world and is not endorsed by the APSC.
The table highlights key differences in line with the comparison table produced by the APSC for other levels:
- Bold text indicates major differences between APS6 and EL1 responsibilities.
- Italicised text indicates minor nuances or wording differences.
This resource can be used for self-assessment, career planning, team discussions, or coaching purposes. It is intended to provide insight and stimulate reflection on leadership expectations, rather than serve as an official guide.
I recommend grabbing a cup of tea or coffee and a quiet space to review this table over the next few days.
Free Resources
You don’t need to buy the book to get value, these tools are designed to help you apply the concepts immediately.
Career Moves Worksheet
Define what the next move is for you in your career
Three Fits Worksheet
Clarify whether a role is right for you across role, level and lifestyle.
The Contact Officer Call
Prepare to call the contact officer to get further information on the role
The Funnel
Get clear on why you want the role and what you’ll bring to it
Post Interview Journal
Reflect on what went well and what to do different next time
Referee Preparation
Get clear on what you’d like your referee to mention when contacted
Testimonials
I incorporated Brendon’s tips, and I managed to achieve a ‘highly suitable’ rating and first on the Order of Merit. – successful in APS6 promotion
I felt better prepared, more comfortable and definitely more relaxed during my interview. I was comfortable that if I did get stuck I knew what I would fall back on and I was able to present more confidently as result of working with Brendon. – successful in EL2 promotion
Book one of my career coaching programs to support your journey
What’s My Next Career Move?
Career clarity and strategic direction for professionals exploring their next opportunity, promotion, or transition.
How Do I Get the Job?
APS recruitment coaching, interview preparation, written application support, and strategic career positioning.
I Got the Job. What Now?
Transition coaching and leadership support to help you establish yourself confidently in your new role.
The Career Journey
Comprehensive coaching support across every stage of your career transition, from career clarity and APS recruitment strategy through to onboarding, confidence building, and leadership transition support in your new role.