This capability is about analysis, judgment and practical problem-solving.
Not overthinking. Not sounding clever. Solving real problems in a way that makes sense in context.
Panels are usually looking for signs that you can think through an issue properly, weigh relevant information, and land on a practical response. That is very different from writing a vague line about being “analytical”.
Because of that, this capability is usually much easier to demonstrate through a STAR-style example. If you need a refresher, go back to our STAR Method Examples for NSW Government Applications.
What changes across the levels
- Foundational: notices issues and works through straightforward problems
- Intermediate: analyses information and weighs practical options
- Adept: considers broader context, patterns and implications when solving problems
- Advanced: deals with more complex, ambiguous problems and makes sound judgement calls
- Highly Advanced: shapes problem-solving direction at an organisational or system level
How to build a stronger example
Good examples often show:
- what the problem actually was
- what information you used
- what options you considered
- why your solution made sense
Example paragraph: Intermediate
In an administrative role, I noticed a recurring issue with incomplete information being passed between teams, which was causing delays and repeated follow-up. My task was to work out where the handover was breaking down and find a practical fix. I reviewed the requests that had stalled, identified the missing information people consistently needed, and adjusted the template we were using so that the right details were captured at the start. That reduced back-and-forth and improved processing time.
Example paragraph: Adept
While supporting a project, I identified that delays were being treated as isolated issues when they were actually linked to a broader sequencing problem. The task was not just to keep patching individual delays, but to understand the underlying cause. I reviewed the workflow, looked at how dependencies were being managed, and proposed a revised approach that addressed the root cause rather than the symptoms. That improved coordination and reduced repeat issues across the work.
Example paragraph: Advanced
In a senior role, I dealt with a complex issue involving competing stakeholder needs, incomplete information and significant time pressure. My task was to help shape a workable decision before the situation escalated further. I brought together the available evidence, identified what was most material to the decision, and worked through options with a clear view of the practical and strategic implications. That helped land a solution that was both workable and defensible.
Final advice
The strongest examples show your thinking without turning into a lecture.
Show the problem, your reasoning, your decision, and the outcome.