The syllabus for Maths Ext2 has not changed since 1990. The 2000 HSC paper had a vertical circular motion problem. There was also one in 1996 which had a tangential force in vertical circular motion.
It is certainly possible that non-uniform circular motion can be examined, though most examples in the syllabus use a uniform circular motion case. When you did the derivation (that's if you did it), of the circular motion equations, you should be derived a formula for the tangential force which is non-zero when the circular motion is non-uniform.
If a question of that nature were to arise, then you will most likely be given the vectors and be expected to resolve them yourself. This usually assesses the "skills" component of the course (i.e. your ability to apply your knowledge in unfamiliar situations).