What to Expect at a MIGAS Assessment Centre

You've applied, you've made it through the phone interview, and now you've been invited to a MIGAS Assessment Centre.

Well done! Getting this far means you've already impressed. But if you're wondering what actually happens on the day, and how to make the most of it, this overview is for you.

What is a MIGAS Assessment Centre?

A MIGAS Assessment Centre is a full or part-day group recruitment session held face-to-face. Rather than a single interview, it's a facilitated workshop where you and a group of other candidates complete a series of engaging and trade-relevant activities while our recruitment team assesses.

It goes well beyond the standard resume-interview-decision process. The activities are designed to give you the best possible chance to show who you are: how you think, how you work with others, and how you handle practical challenges.

Think of it less like an exam and more like a structured opportunity to be yourself.

How the Day Runs

Every assessment centre is slightly different depending on the program and the host employer, but here's what you can generally expect:

Welcome and overview: The day kicks off with an introduction to the program, the schedule, and the people running it. You'll get a clear picture of what to expect.
Icebreaker: This is there to help everyone relax. There's no test here; it's simply a way to get the group comfortable and talking before the main activities begin.
Group activities: You'll work through collaborative tasks with other candidates. These are designed to reveal how you communicate, contribute to a team, and approach problems. Activities could be build or scenario-based.
Individual exercises: These give you space to show your own thinking, problem-solving ability, and how you handle tasks independently
Individual interview: The interview with MIGAS and the host gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your personal communication skills, abilities, and motivation for the apprenticeship.
Practical activities: Depending on the trade discipline you've applied for, there may be hands-on tasks that test your trade-specific aptitude and problem-solving.

Assessment centres typically run for a full day, though some programs may require two days. You’ll be told the location and schedule when you’re invited, so make sure you plan your travel in advance so you arrive on time and ready to go.

What Our Recruiters Are Looking For

Our recruitment team is experienced at spotting potential, not just polish. They're looking for four key things across the day:

Practical ability: Can you apply your skills to a real task? Do you approach problems logically?
Teamwork: Do you contribute, listen, and support others? Leadership qualities often show up here, too.
Communication: Are you clear and respectful when you speak? Can you ask a good question and explain your thinking?
Motivation: This is the big one. An apprenticeship is typically a four-year commitment. Our recruiters want to know you genuinely want to be there, and that you can articulate why.

Motivation is hard to fake. People who are genuinely excited about a trade talk about it easily and honestly. Think about what's really driving you, whether that's a love of working with your hands, a goal to run your own business, or an interest in the gas industry, and be ready to share it.

Tips to Help You Prepare

You don't need to prepare for days to perform well at an assessment centre. But a little preparation goes a long way:

Research the role and the trade: Spend some time understanding the technical skills involved in the discipline you've applied for. Knowing the difference between a mechanical fitter and an electrician, for example, shows genuine interest. View our apprenticeship trade specialisation pages as a starting point.
Know your motivation: Before you walk in, be clear on why you want this. Whether it's a career goal, a passion for a particular trade, or the opportunity to work close to home: know it and mean it.
Arrive on time and ready to go: Check the location the night before. Plan your travel so you're not rushing. Bring your PPE if you've been asked to, a notepad, and a pen.
Engage from the start: Our recruiters are observing the whole day, not just the formal activities. The way you participate in the ice breaker, how you introduce yourself to other candidates, and whether you listen when someone else is speaking: all of it counts.
Be a team player, not a scene stealer: In group tasks, the goal isn't to dominate the room. It's to contribute meaningfully, make space for others, and show that you can work alongside people, because that's exactly what you'll need to do on the job.
Be honest, not perfect: If you don't know the answer to something, say so clearly and explain how you'd go about finding out. Our recruiters aren't expecting you to know everything; they're looking for people who are willing to learn.

A Note on Safety Focus

Depending on the program and host employer, a focus on safety may be more than just a nice-to-have, as it can be a core requirement of the role.

When tasks come up that involve safety considerations, take them seriously. Ask questions. Show that you understand why safe work practices matter, whatever the environment.

What Happens After the Assessment Centre?

After the assessment centre, shortlisted candidates will progress to a pre-employment medical assessment before final offers are made. MIGAS organises and covers the cost of the medical, so you won't be out of pocket.

If you're successful, you'll receive a verbal offer first, followed by your employment contract and new starter information by email. From there, your MIGAS Field Officer will be in touch to guide you through inductions, any required tickets or training, and everything you need to know before your first day.

If you're not selected this time, don't be discouraged. Check our Jobs Board regularly for new intakes and opportunities in your state.

The best thing you can do to prepare for an assessment centre is simple. Be genuinely yourself, know why you want the trade, and show up ready to contribute. Our recruiters are on your side; they're trying to find the best fit for you and the program, not trip you up.