Position Code is an item in the NSW Public Sector Workforce Profile Data Collection. All new and amended positions must be coded using PCAT. Positions should not be coded manually.
You will be asked a series of questions which will be different for each position. You should treat each position separately and determine its code individually. All questions are mandatory. You will need to use task information for each position and should not only refer to job titles.
A report is generated at the end of each search with a position code. This report is your coding record.
Position Coding Automated Tool
The PCAT tool enables straightforward enquiries but may give incorrect Position Customer and/or Service Function details if the enquiry is complex. If you have any concerns about the result shown in the PCAT report, please contact the Analytics and Insights team or call the team on 02 9272 6123.
PCAT resources
There is commentary and guidelines within the tool and further resources can be accessed here:
This pdf explains the rationale and methodology for collecting information through position codes.
A spreadsheet with descriptions of code categories.
PCAT Training video
PCAT FAQ’s
The Position Code is made up of four components:
Type of Duties – first digit, reflects the nature of processes and tasks performed by the role
Team Customer – second digit, relates to the function of the team in which the role is situated
Position Customer – third digit, represents the type of customer receiving the products or services of the role
Service Function – fourth to seventh digits, provides detail on the type of work performed in corporate services roles, split between primary and secondary service functions
You will only be able to select a maximum of 5 service functions that make up a significant portion of the role. A function is only designated as significant where it occupies at least 30% of the usual working time of a position. In the final code only the primary and secondary service function will be displayed, or the role will receive a generalist code.
For most operational positions in agencies (nurses, teachers, police), there will be no service function that correlates to their role. Where this is the case, just hit NEXT at the bottom of the screen.
The complexity of determining which screen to show you next based on the selections you have made, means it is not possible to use the back button and still come out with the correct code. You can select the red Reset button on the bottom left-hand side of the question box to be taken back to the initial loading screen and start again.
No. They are related but separate codes, both collected in the annual Workforce Profile collection. ANZSCO relates to the employee’s occupation and is used to monitor changes in the occupational profile of the NSW Public Sector. The Position Code (derived from PCAT) supplements the occupation code and describes how a resource is used. In the final position code screen, a link is available to find the ANZSCO for your role if required.
No. Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) codes is a standardised occupation coding system maintained by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). ANZSCO codes can be sourced from the ANZSCO search function on the Australian Bureau of Statistics website. Position Codes are specific to NSW and were developed by NSW Premier and Cabinet to provide further information about the NSW Public Sector workforce.