The key duties of the position include:
The Role
The Commercial Support Manager is responsible for leading complex contract management activities and providing commercial advice and support across the capability lifecycle.
Working under broad direction within an integrated workforce, the successful applicant will contribute to ASCISPO's commercial governance, assurance, procurement and contract management functions, while ensuring compliance with legislative frameworks, Defence policy and contractual obligations.
Key responsibilities include:
Providing commercial advice and support to contract managers, project personnel and stakeholders across ASCISPO capability programs.
Managing and maintaining commercial governance frameworks, including procurement and contracting policies, processes, templates and guidance.
Monitoring and reporting on contractual obligations, deliverables and key commercial activities to support compliance and performance outcomes.
Identifying commercial risks and contract change requirements and developing mitigation strategies in accordance with Defence policy and contractual frameworks.
Supporting the development of commercial capability within ASCISPO through mentoring, guidance and knowledge sharing activities.
This role is eligible for an additional remuneration benefit known in Defence as a Building Defence Capability Payment (BDCP).
This enables Defence to provide a premium, in addition to the base salary otherwise payable under the Defence Enterprise Collective Agreement (DECA), for positions in occupational disciplines/classifications that are critical to Defence capability.
For further information, please contact the contact officer.
About our Team
Airborne Surveillance Control and Intelligence Systems Program Office (ASCISPO)



plays a critical role in shaping the future of Australia's airborne surveillance capability.
Working with leading industry partners and international military services, we deliver engineering, maintenance, logistics, and training support for the Air Force's E-7A Wedgetail fleet—and we're driving the acquisition of its next-generation replacement.
Part of Defence's capability delivery agency, our integrated team includes Australian Public Servants, Australian Defence Force personnel and industry experts, and is primarily based at RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW—with a small presence in the USA.
At ASCISPO, we pride ourselves on our workplace culture.
We:
Build trust through partnerships that deliver real capability outcomes
Empower bold decision-making through informed risk assessment
Champion flexibility and creativity to deliver timely solutions
Prioritise balance and well-being so our people thrive
Invest in growth and learning, and celebrate diversity
Join the team that is Trusted to Deliver.
Our Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
Demonstrated experience in managing complex contracts and delivering commercial outcomes within government, Defence, or highly regulated industry environments, including the management of strategic suppliers and high-value agreements.
A solid understanding of procurement, contracting and commercial governance principles,



with the ability to interpret and apply legislation, policy, contractual frameworks and government requirements.
The ability to provide strategic commercial advice to senior executives, identify and manage commercial risks and opportunities, and contribute to organisational objectives through effective contract and supplier management.
The ability to analyse complex issues, manage competing priorities and deliver outcomes within tight timeframes.
Experience mentoring and supporting staff to develop commercial acumen and contract management capability.
Appointment to this position will be conditional upon approval to access US controlled export material in accordance with the United States Arms Export Control Act.
Eligibility
Security Clearance:
Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at "Negative Vetting Level 1".
Getting to know the Department of Defence
The Department of Defence employs around 18,000 Australian Public Service (APS) employees.
Defence APS employees work in a wide variety of critical roles, Australia wide, enabling our three services Navy, Army and Air Force, to do their job.
Defence has a range of Australian Public Service (APS) career opportunities that offer interesting, challenging, and unique work.
Our workforce includes administrative support, accountants, intelligence analysts, engineers, policy advisors, graphic designers, lawyers, social workers, IT specialists and contract managers to name a few.
We offer a rewarding career that includes professional development, work-life balance, recognition, a flexible and supportive work environment and a diverse workforce.
To find out more about a career with Defence please visit

📌 Commercial Support Manager (Newcastle)
🏢 Department Of Defence
📍 Newcastle