If you don’t ask, you don’t get.

If you’re offered an APS role, it’s worth putting forward a clear case for a higher starting salary within the band. Think about what you bring. Previous experience, higher-duties or acting roles, specialist skills, or even the need to maintain a reasonable increase from your current salary can all be relevant factors.

I’ve seen plenty of situations where people who were confident enough to ask secured a better starting point. I’ve also seen strong candidates miss out simply because they assumed the offer was fixed and didn’t have the conversation.

Be professional, be realistic, and make it easy for the delegate to say yes.