Advisers, Legal Policy Branch

• Ongoing & Non-ongoing for an initial period of up to 12 months
• APS Level 6 ($94,715 - $106,438),Executive Level 1 ($121,717 - $138,722) plus 15.4% superannuation'
• Barton, ACT

• Location: Barton, ACT
• Application Closing Date: 16-May-2024

ClassificationAPS Level 6 ($94,715 - $106,438)
Executive Level 1 ($121,717 - $138,722)Employment TypeOngoing & Non-ongoing (for an initial period of up to 12 months)This role is being advertised as both ongoing and non-ongoing, with the employment type to be determined in negotiation with the preferred candidate and the PM&C delegate.Where a non-ongoing specified term is offered, this would be for an initial period of up to 12 months, with possibility of extension up to a maximum period of two years.A non-ongoing offer may result in conversion to an ongoing offer of employment, however this must occur within 18 months from the opening date of this advertisement.Flexible WorkFlexible working arrangements will be consideredThe OpportunityThere are a number of opportunities for APS 6 and EL1 officers to join the Freedom of Information (FOI) and Privacy Section in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C). This is a very exciting opportunity to join a dynamic high-profile team that is delivering an important function for PM&C and the Prime Minister.Our TeamGovernment Division provides advice and support to the Prime Minister, the Cabinet and Portfolio Ministers on Legal Policy, information law, parliamentary, government, honours and symbols issues and delivers FOI and Privacy functions for the department.The Adviser positions are available in the FOI and Privacy Section of the Legal Policy Branch. This team works across Government and the Department, as well as with the Prime Minister’s Office and the offices of Portfolio Ministers. We are committed to providing an inclusive and professional workplace that promotes diversity, individual and team development.The FOI and Privacy Section provides expert advice and support to the Prime Minister, PM&C Portfolio Ministers and the Department’s senior executive on handling requests for access to documents made under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (FOI Act). This includes initial decision-making and reviews.We provide strategic advice on the application of the FOI Act through consultation on requests made under the FOI Act, and collaborate with the Cabinet Division in relation to access requests relating to sensitive Cabinet material.We also provide advice to the department on compliance with the Privacy Act 1988 and Privacy (Australian Government Agencies – Governance) APP Code 2017.In addition, as a central agency, we support a range of policy functions across government. In particular, the section provides policy advice to the Prime Minister and Cabinet on the FOI Act, Privacy Act and the Royal Commissions Act 1902, and contributes to other emerging Legal Policy and legal issues facing Government.A merit pool may be established and used to fill the same or similar vacancies for 18 months from the date of advertising.Our Ideal CandidateWe seek professional and energetic candidates with the capacity to work productively with senior stakeholders, manage competing priorities, approach problems with a creative flair, and is outcomes focused.The roles include:

• Manage and complete FOI requests directed to PM&C, the Prime Minister and our portfolio Ministers from inception through to litigation (Case management).
• Support senior officers, and other staff, through the provision of advice on the application of the FOI Act and Privacy Act.
• Engage collaboratively with peers, and senior stakeholders across government on matters of shared interest, including consultation on the application of Cabinet-related FOI exemptions.
• Provide advice on privacy compliance.
• Prepare high quality written products under limited direction, including administrative decisions, briefing and advice on complex legal issues.
• A high degree of flexibility, positive approach to teamwork, and a willingness to learn new skills.
• Mentor and collaborate with staff across the agency and government on privacy and FOI policy.
• EL1 candidates will be expected to contribute to the overall leadership of the section and its functions.
• Legal qualifications are favourable but not essential.

EligibilityTo be eligible for this position you must be an Australian Citizen.The successful candidate will be required to be assessed through our pre-employment screening checks, such as an Australian Criminal History Check.Security Clearance RequiredBaseline Vetting (Protected)Contact OfficerJanelle Dedakis on (02) 6271 5950 or Janelle.Dedakis@pmc.gov.auPlease Note – This is an unclassified web based recruitment system so your application must not contain any classified or sensitive information. This includes in your one page pitch and resume.