By chance I saw it recently; I remember because it stood out. And the job application seemed genuine as the poster was engaging on the "who's hiring" thread here.

I would never fill that in, because I wouldn't want to bother my references. I know some of them don't really like doing it, but do it as a favour because we're on good terms. Probably not a rare scenario. I'm okay asking in a "if you provide me a reference, I will get a new job" as the final stage, but not as a "just checking in case I might land a job".

It’s kind of rare but it happens, I’ve definitely seen it AND been asked up front. I tell them that I don’t “burn” my references on any jobs except those I’m pretty sure I have a great chance and after some interviewing has happened.