EMPLOYMENT

The Gender-based Violence Reform Branch is seeking experienced, passionate and driven individuals to join us in various roles, supporting the establishment of the Branch and spearheading transformative change across the higher education sector. The Branch’s mission is to ensure that higher education providers are safe for all students and staff, and that they are effectively preventing and responding to gender-based violence (GBV). Central to this effort is the establishment of the National Code to Prevent and Respond to GBV, a new regulatory framework designed to embed accountability, drive cultural change, and promote effective responses. Under the Code, higher education providers will be required to respond to GBV in a way that prioritises the wellbeing of students and staff and actively address the factors that drive GBV. The Director, Strategy and Regulatory Enforcement will drive a proactive, evidence-informed, and outcomes-focused regulatory approach that promotes safety, accountability, and cultural change in tertiary institutions. This critical leadership role will drive regulatory influence, shape strategic regulatory approaches and drive legal enforcement activities to ensure providers comply with their responsibilities to create safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environments. The Director will drive the strategic review, analysis and advice on the application and impact of the National Code and connect broader policy objectives for transformational change to address gender-based violence. The key duties of the position include: In this role, your responsibilities will include the following: Leading the design, implementation, and evolution of the regulatory strategy to address GBV in higher education, aligned with national policy and legislative objectives. Defining clear regulatory expectations for prevention, response, and institutional governance in line with evidence-based practice. Providing high-level strategic advice to the Executive on emerging risks, legal trends, and opportunities. Interpreting complex legislation and regulatory instruments, translating them into actionable regulatory strategies and advice. Collaborating with legal counsel and external regulators to ensure consistent legal and regulatory enforcement across jurisdictions. Undertaking horizon scanning and regulatory foresight to identify emerging trends, risks, and opportunities relevant to the regulatory remit. Engaging with key stakeholders including government agencies, peak bodies, and institutions to drive reform and shape the future of GBV regulation. Facilitating an inclusive and positive team culture, provide strong leadership, and support team members in enhancing their capability and professional development, while ensuring employee engagement and wellbeing. Eligibility Employment at the Department of Education is subject to conditions prescribed within the Public Service Act 1999 including: Citizenship: Under section 22(8) of the Public Service Act 1999, employees must be Australian citizens to be employed in the APS unless the Agency delegate has agreed, in writing. Security Clearance: This is a designated security assessed position. The successful candidate will have the ability to obtain and maintain the required security clearance. Getting to know the Department of Education The Department of Education contributes to Australia's economic prosperity and social wellbeing by creating opportunities and driving better outcomes through access to quality education and learning. A strong early childhood education system built around early learning and child care gives children the best start in life—supporting them to build social and behavioural skills to help prepare them to transition to school. For parents and carers, affordable child care enables them to participate in the workforce, pursue further education or other opportunities to contribute to their community — bolstering the social wellbeing and economic prosperity of the nation. As children continue their journey through school, access to quality education creates the foundation for a bright future – it opens a world of possibilities and equips children and young people with the skills, knowledge, and career advice to prepare them for further work or study to fulfil their dreams. An affordable, and accessible higher education sector allows Australians and international students to pursue their passion in life or reskill for the jobs of the future. A strong higher education and research sector in step with national priority areas provides people with an opportunity to choose a career path that addresses skill shortages or the challenges of the future including, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, health, and education. Through education and learning, we change lives, create opportunities, and support Australia's economic success and social wellbeing.