The Department of the Senate is seeking applications from those interested in joining the Procedure Office in the role of Senior Research Officer and Principal Research Officer.

Senior Research Officer (APS 6)

The Senior Research Officer is responsible for undertaking legislative analysis, research and writing tasks for the Legislative Scrutiny Unit, which supports the Senate Scrutiny of Delegated Legislation Committee, the Senate Scrutiny of Bills Committee and the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights. This includes supervised legislative scrutiny as well as contributing to the drafting and preparation of the committee’s reports for consideration and adoption by the committee.

The Senior Research Officer contributes to the administration of committee meetings and other committee business, and is responsible for preparation of background and briefing material for committee members as needed.

The Senior Research Officer has a well-developed understanding of parliamentary processes and of the role played by parliamentary committees, or the ability to acquire such an understanding.

Principal Research Officer (PEL 1)

The Principal Research Officer is responsible for major research and writing tasks supporting the work of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights. This includes high-level legislative scrutiny, analysis and research, as well as preparing complex reports and briefs for consideration by the chair and committee.

The occupant of this position also manages preparatory work for meetings of the committee, other committee business and, as needed, assists with inquiries including the organisation of local and interstate public hearings. They are responsible for the supervision of lower level employees and may be required to act as secretary to the committee on occasions.

The Principal Research Officer also supports the work of the Scrutiny of Delegated Legislation and Scrutiny of Bills committee secretariats where necessary. The Principal Research Officer has a well-developed understanding of parliamentary processes and of the role played by parliamentary committees.

To apply

To apply, please indicate the position or positions you are applying for when completing the application form. You are asked to provide a one-page pitch, detailing your suitability to perform the duties of the position or positions you have nominated, along with a copy of your CV or résumé.

The Department of the Senate is committed to being an inclusive employer. We aim to provide a supportive, flexible, and fair workplace that recognises the diversity within the Australian community, where all employees feel respected, valued and supported to best contribute to our work. We encourage applications from First Nations’ people, people with disabilities, neurodivergent people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those who identify as LGBTIQA+, mature aged employees and people with caring responsibilities.