EMPLOYMENT

The Department of the House of Representatives is seeking applications from those interested in directly supporting the work of The House of Representatives and members of Parliament at Parliament House in Canberra. This is an expected ongoing opportunity within the The Committee Office. The Committee Office supports parliamentary committees in their work of examining policy and legislation, and of scrutinising the executive government, through the provision of procedural, research, analytical, drafting and administrative support. Working in the Committee Office gives a close-up perspective on a unique aspect of the parliamentary environment. Judgement, professionalism and a willingness to learn are essential. About the role The Defence Amendment (Parliamentary Joint Committee on Defence) Bill 2025 requires the appointment of a Parliamentary Joint Committee on Defence (PJCOD). Subject to passage of the legislation, the Committee will be required to inquire into matters referred to it by the Senate or the House of Representatives or a Minister of the Commonwealth Government, or on its own motion. The Committee will also have a wide range of standing review functions. The Inquiry Secretary will be a senior officer within the secretariat, providing research, advisory, report writing and administrative support to the parliamentary committee. The Inquiry Secretary is responsible for managing the planning and conduct of Committee reviews and inquiries, including analysing evidence provided to the Committee as well as annual reports, white papers, reviews, legislation and other documents dealing with the strategies, planning and contingencies of Australian defence agencies. The Inquiry Secretary also supports the Committee Secretary in providing advice to committee chairs and members regarding parliamentary practice and procedure, and in leading and developing junior secretariat staff. Inquiry Secretary roles may require domestic travel to support the Committee. The position of Inquiry Secretary is an equivalent level to an Assistant Director in Australian Public Service agencies. You will work directly with Members of Parliament and be responsible for liaising with a range of senior executive stakeholders. The department is committed to leadership at all levels and there is an expectation that all staff are able to demonstrate leadership in their professional experience. The key duties of the position include The Inquiry Secretary will: 1. As a senior officer in the secretariat, provide research, advisory, report writing and administrative support to the PJCOD. 2. Under the direction of the Committee Secretary, advise a committee chair or the chair and other members as required, including: support the planning and management of inquiries and other oversight functions of the committee; conduct research and analysis; provide written and oral advice; arrange meetings and hearings, and record minutes; provide advice and information to witnesses, officials and the general public on committee business; advise on aspects of parliamentary practice and procedure relevant to the work of the committee; and draft and prepare for publication reports, discussion papers and other documents. 3. Assist the Committee Secretary in the effective management of a secretariat, including: leading, managing and developing staff as required; implementing the department's policies and procedures; committee record keeping; and performing other duties as required.