Publication: Public Service Vacancy Circular 36 of 2026
Date issued: 9 October 2026
Last checked: 10 October 2026
Closing dates: Vary by department and vacancy
Reviewed by: Godwin Samuel, Founder and Publisher of DPSACircular.co.za
Official source: Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA)
Quick Answer: What Is Public Service Vacancy Circular 36 of 2026?
Public Service Vacancy Circular 36 of 2026 is an official South African government vacancy publication issued on 9 October 2026. The PDF contains advertised vacancies across national departments and provincial administrations, general instructions for applicants, an amendment to a previously advertised Department of Sport, Arts and Culture post, and a withdrawal notice for a Gauteng government vacancy.
The circular reminds applicants to use the Z83 application form introduced with effect from 1 January 2021, provide details of their training, qualifications, competencies, knowledge and experience, include the correct vacancy reference number, and ensure their applications reach the relevant department by the closing date.
READ: DLRRD Vacancies in DPSA Circular 34 of 2026: Application Guide & Requirements
Two notices deserve particular attention:
- The requirements for the Assistant Director: Translation and Editing (Siswati), reference DSAC-11/09/2026, have been amended, and the closing date has been extended to 16 October 2026.
- The Gauteng Chief Director: Arts, Culture and Heritage vacancy, reference Refs/050114, advertised in Circular 24 of 2026, has been withdrawn.
Applicants should read the specific advertisement before preparing an application. The circular provides general directions, but individual departments set vacancy-specific requirements, submission methods and closing dates.
Download the Official DPSA Circular 36 of 2026 PDF
Applicants should obtain the circular from the official DPSA website before relying on a copy shared on another website.
Official source: Visit the DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circular page
Open the page, locate Public Service Vacancy Circular 36 of 2026, and open or download the PDF. Check the publication number and issue date before using the document.
DPSACircular.co.za is an independent job information website. We explain vacancy information and application instructions for readers, but we are not the official DPSA website and do not receive, process or decide government job applications.
What Is Included in Circular 36 of 2026?
The circular contains vacancy advertisements arranged by department and annexure. Its index directs readers to national departments first, followed by provincial administrations.
The national department sections include:
- Agriculture
- Defence
- Electricity and Energy
- Employment and Labour
- Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
- Government Printing Works
- Health
- Higher Education and Training
- Independent Police Investigative Directorate
- Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services
- Land Reform and Rural Development
- Office of the Chief Justice
- Public Works and Infrastructure
- Small Business Development
- Traditional Affairs
- Transport
- Treasury
- Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
The PDF also includes provincial administration vacancy sections. Use the index at the beginning of the document to find the relevant department and page range.
The publication contains many individual posts. The circular’s post references, rather than a department name alone, help applicants locate the exact vacancy they intend to apply for.
How to Find a Suitable Vacancy in Circular 36
A long government vacancy PDF is easier to use when read with a specific purpose. Start with the type of work you want, then check the requirements before spending time preparing documents.
Step 1: Find the department
Use the index to locate a department that advertises work relevant to your qualifications, experience or professional registration.
Do not assume every post listed under a department suits your background. A single department often advertises posts at different levels, with different qualification and experience requirements.
Step 2: Read the complete advertisement
For each suitable post, check the following details:
- Post title and reference number
- Salary or salary level
- Centre or place of work
- Minimum qualification
- Required experience
- Professional registration, where applicable
- Duties and responsibilities
- Application method and destination
- Required documents
- Closing date
- Enquiries contact
A job title alone does not establish eligibility. The requirements and application instructions determine what the department asks applicants to provide.
Step 3: Compare your background with the stated requirements
Read the requirements line by line. Separate minimum requirements from advantages, knowledge requirements, competencies and duties.
For example, where an advertisement requires a specific diploma and relevant work experience, a general statement about being interested in the job does not demonstrate compliance. Your CV should make your qualification and relevant experience easy to identify.
Do not assume an advantage listed in an advertisement is compulsory. Equally, do not treat a stated minimum qualification or required professional registration as optional.
Step 4: Record the closing date and submission method
Write down the closing date and the exact method prescribed by the department. Some advertisements direct applications by email, others specify hand delivery, post or an online recruitment portal. Instructions differ between vacancies.
An application prepared correctly but sent to the wrong destination risks being excluded from consideration.
Important Amendment in Circular 36 of 2026
The amendment section contains an updated notice for the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture post of Assistant Director: Translation and Editing (Siswati).
Reference number: DSAC-11/09/2026
Original publication: Public Service Vacancy Circular 34 of 2026, issued on 18 September 2026
Original closing date: 5 October 2026
Amended closing date: 16 October 2026
The amended requirements specify:
- Two to three years of relevant experience.
- At least two years working as a Siswati Language Practitioner in a translating environment.
- Successful completion of a departmental Siswati translation and editing test.
What applicants should do
Anyone interested in this post should read the amendment in Circular 36 alongside the original advertisement in Circular 34. Check the complete original advert for the remaining duties, submission method, contact details and other requirements.
Do not rely only on an older copy of the original advertisement. The amendment changes the stated experience requirements and extends the closing date. The later notice should be considered when preparing an application.
The revised closing date is 16 October 2026, according to Circular 36. Applicants should confirm the current status with the advertising department before submitting an application.
Vacancy Withdrawal Notice: Gauteng Chief Director: Arts, Culture and Heritage
Circular 36 also records the withdrawal of a Gauteng provincial administration vacancy.
Post: Chief Director: Arts, Culture and Heritage
Reference number: Refs/050114
Original publication: Public Service Vacancy Circular 24 of 2026
Original closing date: 24 July 2026
Status stated in Circular 36: Withdrawn
What does the withdrawal mean for applicants?
The notice states that the advertised post has been withdrawn. Applicants should not treat the old advertisement as an active opportunity.
If you previously prepared or submitted an application for this post, check official Gauteng department communications for any later notice. Do not assume the same post has been reopened under a new reference number unless an official advertisement confirms this.
This is one reason applicants should check amendment and withdrawal notices rather than relying on an old vacancy article, saved PDF or social media post.
General Application Instructions in Circular 36
The circular sets out directions for prospective applicants. These instructions provide a starting point, but the individual vacancy advertisement must also be followed.
Use the prescribed Z83 application form
Circular 36 instructs prospective applicants to use the new Z83 form effective from 1 January 2021.
Complete the form carefully and check that the information matches your CV and supporting details. Follow the particular advertisement’s requirements concerning signatures, dates and supporting documents.
Do not assume an older form is acceptable simply because it was used for a previous application.
Provide details of qualifications and experience
The circular states that applications must include full particulars of the applicant’s training, qualifications, competencies, knowledge and experience. These details should appear on a separate sheet where necessary or in the CV.
A practical approach is to make the information easy to verify. List your qualifications clearly, identify relevant work experience, and describe responsibilities related to the advertised duties. Avoid claiming skills or experience you do not possess.
Include the correct vacancy reference number
Circular 36 specifically instructs applicants to indicate the vacancy reference number.
Check the reference in the advertisement and copy it carefully into the relevant part of the Z83 form. Where email instructions require the post title and reference in the subject line, follow those instructions as well.
A department might advertise several posts with similar titles. The reference helps identify the vacancy associated with your application.
READ: DPSA Circular 35 of 2026: Application Guide, Requirements, and PDF Download
Submit to the department advertising the vacancy
The circular says applications must be forwarded to the department where the vacancy exists. The relevant advertisement identifies the required submission route and destination.
Do not send an application to DPSA merely because DPSA publishes the circular. The circular directs applicants with questions about a vacancy to the advertising department, not DPSA.
Make sure the application arrives by the deadline
Circular 36 states that applications must reach the relevant department on or before the applicable closing date.
Sending an email or posting documents on the last day is not a safe substitute for checking the stated deadline and submission rules. Allow time to resolve technical problems, confirm the correct address and check whether the department requires a particular file format.
How to Read Qualification and Experience Requirements
Government vacancy advertisements often contain several different types of requirements. Reading them as one long sentence can lead applicants to misunderstand the job.
Minimum qualifications
A minimum qualification identifies the education or professional credential required for consideration. Check the exact qualification, field of study and level stated in the advertisement.
A qualification in a related subject is not automatically equivalent to the qualification requested. Where an advert sets a specific qualification, do not assume a different certificate or diploma will be accepted without confirmation from the advertising department.
Relevant experience
Relevant experience relates to the work or duties specified in the advertisement. The length of experience matters, but so does the type of work performed.
For example, an advert requiring experience in a particular professional environment is not necessarily asking for any employment history. Your CV should explain the relevant tasks you performed and the period during which you performed them.
Knowledge and competencies
Knowledge requirements describe subjects, procedures, legislation, systems or technical areas the applicant is expected to understand. Competencies describe skills and capabilities relevant to the job.
Where appropriate, use concise examples from your work history to show how your experience relates to the advertised duties. Do not copy a list of competencies into your CV without showing how your background supports the claims.
Advantages
Some advertisements list additional qualifications or experience as an advantage. Read the wording carefully to distinguish an advantage from a minimum requirement.
An advantage should not be represented as compulsory unless the advertisement says so. The advertising department remains the correct source for questions about how a specific requirement is interpreted.
Practical Example: Checking a Health Vacancy
Circular 36 includes a Health and Safety Officer vacancy at Madadeni Provincial Hospital.
The advertisement identifies the post as POST 36/196 and gives the reference as MAD 09/2026. The stated salary range is R413,001 to R486,501 per annum, Level 08. The requirements include a degree or national diploma in Environmental Health or Safety Management and three to five years of safety experience. The listed closing date is 23 October 2026.
This example illustrates why applicants should read the full advertisement instead of relying on the title alone.
A reader considering this post should check whether their qualification matches the stated field, whether their experience relates to safety work, and whether they meet the remaining knowledge and competency requirements. They should then read the full advert for the application destination, documents and other instructions.
The post title does not establish that an applicant qualifies. The complete requirements must be reviewed before applying.
Practical Example: Checking a Specialist Health Post
The circular also includes POST 36/179, Medical Specialist: Emergency Medicine, at Port Shepstone Regional Hospital.
The advertisement sets out different experience requirements for Grades 1, 2 and 3. It also lists medical qualifications, professional registration requirements and other clinical competencies. The stated closing date is 23 October 2026.
This illustrates an important application lesson: where an advert has different grades or experience bands, read the details for the grade you intend to apply for. Do not assume the same experience threshold applies to every grade.
Applicants should check the full advertisement and confirm the professional registration and documentary requirements before submitting.
Application Checklist Before You Submit
Use this checklist for each vacancy, rather than assuming one application process applies to every department.
- I located the full advertisement in Circular 36 or the relevant amended notice.
- I checked the post title and reference number.
- I read the minimum qualification requirements.
- I checked the required years and type of experience.
- I reviewed professional registration requirements, where applicable.
- I checked the duties and listed competencies.
- I completed the prescribed Z83 form.
- My CV includes accurate details of qualifications, work history and relevant responsibilities.
- I prepared supporting documents required by the specific advertisement.
- I followed the prescribed signature, date and file-format instructions.
- I used the correct email address, postal address, hand-delivery destination or recruitment portal.
- I included the correct reference number.
- I checked the closing date and allowed time for delivery.
- I reviewed the amendment and withdrawal notices where relevant.
- I saved a copy of the submitted application and any available confirmation.
Not every department requests the same supporting documents at the initial application stage. Follow the relevant advertisement rather than sending extra documents without checking the instructions.
READ: How to Apply: Department of Agriculture Vacancies (DPSA Circular 35 of 2026)
How DPSACircular.co.za Reviews Vacancy Information
A vacancy summary is useful only when readers understand where the information comes from and which details require further checking.
For this guide, the source review focused on the uploaded Public Service Vacancy Circular 36 of 2026, including the publication date, general applicant directions, index, selected vacancy details, amendment notice and withdrawal notice.
Our editorial approach for vacancy guides is to:
- Identify the official circular and publication date.
- Locate the relevant department section and individual post.
- Check the post title, reference number and requirements against the source text.
- Highlight application instructions that affect how a candidate submits an application.
- Separate general guidance from requirements stated in the official advertisement.
- Direct readers to the official source for the full advert and subsequent changes.
- Correct the article if a verified error is reported or an official amendment changes the information.
The purpose of this process is to make a lengthy vacancy document easier to use without replacing the department’s official advertisement.
What this guide does not establish
A summary does not confirm that a reader qualifies for a post, that a department has received an application, or that a candidate will be shortlisted.
DPSACircular.co.za does not decide eligibility on behalf of government departments. Applicants should contact the advertising department for clarification on a particular vacancy.
Official Sources and Useful Links
DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circulars
Use the official DPSA page to locate the published circular and compare the publication number and date.
National School of Government SMS Pre-entry Certificate Programme
Circular 36 provides this link for information about the SMS pre-entry certificate course. Applicants considering senior management posts should read the specific vacancy requirements to establish whether the certificate is required.
Departmental recruitment sources
For vacancy-specific enquiries, use the contact details in the relevant advertisement. Circular 36 states that the department advertising the post is responsible for answering enquiries about the vacancy.
Frequently Asked Questions: DPSA Circular 36 of 2026
1. When was Public Service Vacancy Circular 36 of 2026 issued?
The circular was issued on 9 October 2026, according to the publication cover.
2. Where do I download Circular 36 of 2026?
Visit the official DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circular page and locate Circular 36 of 2026. Check the publication number and date before downloading the PDF.
3. Which departments are included in Circular 36?
The circular contains vacancies from national departments and provincial administrations. The index at the start of the PDF identifies the departments and their page ranges.
4. What Z83 form should applicants use?
Circular 36 directs applicants to use the new Z83 form effective from 1 January 2021. Check the individual advertisement for additional completion, signature and document instructions.
5. Must I include the vacancy reference number?
Yes. Circular 36 instructs applicants to indicate the reference number of the vacancy. Copy the number from the relevant advertisement and follow any additional email subject-line instructions.
6. Where should I send my application?
Send the application to the department advertising the vacancy, using the method and destination specified in the full advertisement. Submission instructions differ between posts.
7. Does DPSA process my job application?
Circular 36 explains that DPSA issues the circular but directs vacancy enquiries to the department advertising the post. DPSACircular.co.za is an independent information website and does not accept or process applications.
8. What is the amended closing date for the Siswati translation and editing post?
Circular 36 extends the closing date for Assistant Director: Translation and Editing (Siswati), reference DSAC-11/09/2026, to 16 October 2026. Check the amendment alongside the original advertisement and confirm the current status with the department.
9. What are the amended requirements for the Siswati post?
The amendment states two to three years of relevant experience, at least two years working as a Siswati Language Practitioner in a translating environment, and successful completion of a departmental Siswati translation and editing test.
10. Which Gauteng vacancy was withdrawn?
The circular records the withdrawal of Chief Director: Arts, Culture and Heritage, reference Refs/050114, originally advertised in Circular 24 of 2026.
11. Should I still apply for the withdrawn Gauteng post?
Do not treat the withdrawn advertisement as an active vacancy. Check official departmental announcements for a new advertisement before taking further action.
12. Are all vacancies in Circular 36 open until the same date?
No. Closing dates differ between advertisements. Check the closing date printed in the individual vacancy notice and read any later amendment.
13. Does meeting the qualification guarantee shortlisting?
No. Meeting the listed minimum requirements does not guarantee shortlisting or appointment. The advertising department assesses applications under the applicable recruitment process.
14. Should my CV explain my relevant experience?
Yes. Circular 36 asks for particulars of training, qualifications, competencies, knowledge and experience. A clear CV helps the department identify relevant experience, but follow the specific advertisement for any required format or additional documents.
15. Must I submit certified copies with every application?
Do not assume the same document rules apply to every post. Read the individual advertisement carefully. Some departments request particular documents at application stage, while others request proof from shortlisted candidates.
16. What should I do if the email address in a vacancy advert appears incorrect?
Check the official advertisement and the department’s official recruitment information. If the address remains unclear, contact the department using a verified official contact route before sending personal documents.
17. Who should I contact with questions about a vacancy?
Circular 36 directs applicants to the department where the vacancy exists. Use the enquiry details printed in the specific advertisement rather than contacting DPSA for vacancy-specific information.
18. What is the SMS pre-entry certificate programme?
Circular 36 links to the National School of Government information page for the SMS pre-entry certificate course. Check the specific senior management vacancy to determine whether the certificate is required and consult the NSG for course details.
19. How do I check whether a vacancy summary is accurate?
Compare the summary with the official circular and full department advertisement. Check the title, reference number, qualification, experience, application method and closing date. Look for later amendment or withdrawal notices as well.
20. Does DPSACircular.co.za guarantee employment or application success?
No. DPSACircular.co.za publishes independent government vacancy information and application guidance. The website does not accept, process or decide government job applications and does not guarantee shortlisting, appointment or employment.
Editorial Review: What We Checked in Circular 36
Publication identity: The PDF identifies the document as Public Service Vacancy Circular, Publication No. 36 of 2026, issued on 9 October 2026.
General application directions: The opening pages specify the new Z83 form effective from 1 January 2021, the need to provide particulars of training and experience, the requirement to state the vacancy reference number, and the instruction to submit applications to the relevant advertising department by the closing date.
Amendment: The circular changes the stated requirements and closing date for the Assistant Director: Translation and Editing (Siswati), reference DSAC-11/09/2026, originally advertised in Circular 34 of 2026.
Withdrawal: The circular records the withdrawal of Gauteng Chief Director: Arts, Culture and Heritage, reference Refs/050114, originally advertised in Circular 24 of 2026.
Selected vacancy example: The Health and Safety Officer post at Madadeni Provincial Hospital is listed as POST 36/196, with reference MAD 09/2026 and a closing date of 23 October 2026. The full advert contains the qualification, experience and competency requirements.
Editorial limitation: The examples above are not a substitute for reading the full vacancy advertisement. Requirements, application routes and status must be confirmed against the relevant official source.
About the Author
Godwin Samuel
Founder and Publisher of DPSACircular.co.za
Godwin Samuel publishes government vacancy information and application guidance for readers seeking South African public service opportunities. His editorial work focuses on reviewing vacancy notices, identifying important application instructions, explaining requirements in plain language and directing applicants to official sources.
Read the author profile for more information about the publisher and editorial responsibilities.
About DPSACircular.co.za
DPSACircular.co.za is an independent South African job information website that publishes DPSA Vacancy Circulars and government vacancy guidance. The website aims to help readers understand vacancy advertisements, locate official sources and prepare applications according to the instructions published by the relevant department.
The website is not the official DPSA website and does not accept, process or decide government job applications. Recruitment decisions belong to the relevant advertising departments.
Corrections and Vacancy Updates
If you identify an incorrect reference number, closing date, qualification, application link or other detail in this guide, contact the editorial team:
- Email: info@dpsacircular.co.za
- Publisher: godwinsamuel@dpsacircular.co.za
Please include the article URL, the relevant vacancy title or reference number, and a link or document supporting the correction. Verified changes should be checked against an official source before the article is updated.
READ: DPSA Circular 35 of 2026: Department of Employment and Labour Jobs & PDF Download
Independence Notice
DPSACircular.co.za is an independent South African job information website. We are not the official DPSA website and do not accept, process or decide government job applications. We do not control departmental recruitment decisions and do not guarantee shortlisting, appointment or employment.
Applicants should use the official circular and relevant department advertisement as the final source for vacancy requirements, application instructions and current status.
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