Who we are
Marine and Aquatic Biosecurity is a high performing section that develops biosecurity policy and provides technical and scientific advice for the safe importation of aquatic animals and animal products, using science-based risk analysis. It also provides scientific and technical support to gain, maintain and improve access for the export of aquatic animals and animal products. The section provides national leadership and technical advice on marine pest biosecurity including ballast water management, biofouling and in-water cleaning of vessels. The Marine and Aquatic Biosecurity Section is a dynamic, motivated and skilled section with a proven history of achieving short and long-term objectives. The section has a great culture.
The Job
The duties will include but not limited to the following:
• Provide scientific, technical and policy advice to support business objectives, including risk analysis, review of current import conditions and advice to the senior leadership in the division and operational areas of the department, as well as advice to relevant stakeholders.
• Lead and manage the development and review of animal biosecurity policy and technical market access issues for aquatic animals and their animal products.
• Identify and address new, high priority areas of animal biosecurity risk in line with the department’s responsibilities.
• Support overseas market access for Australian exports through negotiations with trading partners and industry on technical animal health issues.
• Represent the branch or section on committees and in negotiations and discussions.
• Contribute to the preparedness, planning and/or operation of veterinary or aquatic health emergency management responses as required.
• Contribute to international aquatic animal health standards consistent with Australia’s policy objectives and in line with international obligations.
• Manage the responsibilities and outcomes of the section within the approved budget allocation.
• Promote and uphold APS and departmental values and behaviours.
Please note that the merit pool established through this selection process, which is valid for a period of eighteen months from the date the vacancy was advertised in the Public Service Gazette, may also be used to fill future ongoing vacancies in the branch where the duties are of a similar nature.
What are we looking for
knowledge and experience
• Experience managing staff undertaking preparation of scientific and technical advice in a government setting. A proven ability to organise, manage and coordinate workload relating to different programs, cultivating a strong, collaborative team environment.
• Extensive knowledge of pests and diseases of aquatic animals and of marine pests, and knowledge of Australia’s animal health system and biosecurity system.
• Experience in providing strategic, specialist and high-level advice to the Senior Executive and Minister.
Mandatory qualifications
The applicant must possess a Bachelor degree in a relevant science discipline such as immunology, virology, bacteriology, veterinary public health, or international relations. Postgraduate qualifications in relevant disciplines such as science, immunology, virology, bacteriology, veterinary public health, or international relations is desirable but not mandatory.
For additional information, please read the Job Description below.
Candidate Information Package DOCX
Candidate Information Package PDF
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