EMPLOYMENT

This is your opportunity to contribute to the health and safety of 13.5 million Australians. At Safe Work Australia (the Agency), you’ll work on nationally significant projects that shape work health and safety (WHS) policy and practice. We have Senior Policy Officer roles available across a number of dynamic teams in the Agency’s Policy and Consultation Group, with interesting and dynamic work. The Policy and Consultation Group is responsible for: coordinating and developing national policies in relation to WHS and workers' compensation matters supporting implementation of the model WHS legislation and reform of the legislative framework providing policy advice on the model WHS laws in relation to high-risk workplaces, psychosocial hazards, hazardous chemicals and occupational diseases, including infectious diseases, silicosis and asbestosis, and supporting policy consultation and engagement activities. The Legal and Framework Policy Branch is currently: undertaking a best practice review of Australia’s model WHS laws leading national WHS policy on psychosocial risks including harmful behaviours such as sexual harassment, workplace bullying and violence leading the development of proposals and initiatives to improve workers’ compensation arrangements, and to promote national consistency in such arrangements, and leading legislative and regulatory reforms, including to improve the legal protections for gig workers. The Hazards and Industries Branch is currently leading national WHS policy: related to workplace hazardous chemicals, including workplace exposure standards and major hazard facilities on the management of workplace risks that could lead to the development of illness or occupational disease, including from biological hazards, asbestos, carcinogens and lead. including delivering on high-profile policy work to manage the risks of exposure to respirable crystalline silica at work and to prevent Australian workers developing silicosis, and on a range of other matters covered in the model WHS Regulations related to high risk work and industries, including reforms to crane licensing and the development of and tailored industry guidance for the healthcare and social assistance industry. A merit list will be established to fill current and future vacancies within the Policy and Consultation Group. The key duties of the position include: As part of a small, collaborative agency, you’ll gain exposure across the organisation and develop valuable skills in policy, communication, and project management. We’re seeking skilled, motivated professionals from a range of disciplines and backgrounds who: work well in a team and communicate effectively write clearly and persuasively think critically and solve problems deliver accurate, timely advice are eager to learn and grow In this role you will: Drive national WHS policy development and reform, including more complex projects Undertake complex research and analysis to inform evidence-based policy and provide strategic advice Prepare high-quality policy documents, including options papers, briefs, reports and guidance materials Lead project management planning, monitoring, and delivery Drive stakeholder engagement and consultation activities, including anticipating stakeholder needs Represent the Agency in stakeholder forums where required Work collaboratively within the team and contribute to a supportive and inclusive workplace, including building relationships Contribute to innovation and business process improvement Supervise and mentor junior staff Eligibility To be eligible for employment with the Agency, you must be an Australian citizen, and you will be required to successfully undergo a police record check. The successful applicant must be able to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Baseline level security clearance or hold a current security clearance of an appropriate level. More information on the security clearance vetting process is available on the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA) website. Getting to know the Safe Work Australia Safe Work Australia (SWA) is a leading national policy body for work health and safety (WHS) and workers’ compensation. We are a small Agency of around 100 people yet our work plays a significant role in the lives of 13.5 million working Australians and their families through the provision of guidance to create safer and more productive workplaces, and the prevention of work-related death, injury and illness. We provide generous terms and conditions and flexible working arrangements. We are committed to professional development, health and wellbeing, as well as maintaining an engaged and enthusiastic workforce. Our Agency has an active Workplace Inclusion Network and social club, and we participate in a range of corporate and charitable activities. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive workplace. People from a culturally and linguistically diverse background, LGBTIQ people, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability and people with parenting or caring responsibilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Centrally located in the Nishi Building in Canberra, our office has easy access to a variety of cafés and restaurants. We are also close to Lake Burley Griffin which provides excellent views as well as walking and cycle paths.