Here you'll find answers to the most common questions people ask the Ontario government. Select a topic from the list below and you'll be directed to where to find what you are looking for.

1. What does an appointment involve?
2. How do I apply?
3. Where do I find out about vacancies?
4. What happens after I submit my application?
5. Why are some positions advertised on the site and others only appear on the upcoming vacancy list?
6. Will I have to appear before the Standing Committee on Government Agencies?
7. How long does an appointment last?
8. Will I be paid?

Most appointments are part-time and require approximately two to three days per month plus time to read reports and prepare for meetings. Information on the time commitment involved can be found in the description of individual agencies on this site.

Anyone wishing to apply for an appointment can apply online or download an application form and mail or fax their application to the Public Appointments Secretariat. The application process can be found on this site under "How to Apply" link.

The site provides a list of upcoming vacancies for the next three months. When reviewing the list it is important to keep in mind that not all positions on the list will result in new appointments. Some appointees' terms will be renewed and in some cases, agency workloads or mandates change resulting in the need for fewer appointees.

The Public Appointments Secretariat will keep your information on file for a period of three years. During this time, you will be considered for the position or subject area in which you have expressed an interest as openings occur.

If your application is short-listed, you will be contacted to confirm your interest and asked to submit a Personal and Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement.

Significant positions such as Chairs of agencies and full-time members of adjudicative or regulatory agencies often require specific skills and expertise. These positions are advertised to highlight and attract candidates with those skills and experience.

However, applications for all positions are accepted on an ongoing basis. If you have previously submitted an application for a position in an agency that is subsequently advertised, your application will be included in the competition for the advertised position.

The Public Appointments Secretariat submits information on all intended Order in Council appointments (excluding appointments for a term of one year or less) to the Standing Committee on Government Agencies. The Committee may request your appearance to discuss your qualifications.

In some cases, the agency's enabling legislation stipulates the term of appointment. As a general rule, appointments are for a three-year term. There may also be an opportunity to renew the appointment for a second three-year term.

Approximately half of the appointments carry some level of remuneration. Out-of-pocket expenses are usually reimbursed.