The Department of the Senate is seeking applications from those interested in joining the Committee Office, in the role of Principal Research Officer.

Principal Research Officers work as part of a committee secretariat team to undertake major research, analysis and drafting for committee inquiries, including the preparation of briefing papers, background material and draft reports for committee consideration. They are expected to take carriage of inquiries and significant aspects of committee business, support and mentor other members of the secretariat, and act as committee secretary, including during committee hearings, as required. They may need to work reasonable additional hours during peak work times, assist other secretariat teams from time to time, and travel interstate to support committee hearings and other committee activities.

Principal Research Officers regularly liaise with senators and their staff, witnesses, public servants and representatives of external organisations. They must be able to produce high-quality written work under pressure, manage competing priorities, exercise sound judgement and contribute to the effective delivery of committee activities, including local and interstate hearings and other committee proceedings. They require a strong understanding of parliamentary practice and procedure and the role of parliamentary committees, or the demonstrated ability to acquire and apply such an understanding.

1. Undertake major research and analysis for committee inquiries, producing draft reports, briefing papers and background material.
2. Assist the committee secretary in the planning and management of all aspects of committee inquiries, including the organisation and conduct of public hearings.
3.



Manage individual inquiries or aspects of committee business and act as committee secretary when required.
4. Contribute to the effective management of the committee secretariat, including supporting and mentoring other members of the secretariat, and contribute to learning, development and knowledge-sharing activities within the Committee Office.
5. Provide advice and information to committees and liaise with senators' offices, witnesses, officials and the general public on committee business.
6. Develop and apply strong knowledge of Senate procedure and parliamentary law and practice, particularly in relation to the work of committees.
7. Complete corporate and administrative tasks in a timely manner, including maintaining committee records in accordance with parliamentary and departmental recordkeeping obligations. Contribute to the executive leadership of the Committee Office.

Desirable

Relevant tertiary qualifications (or progress towards tertiary qualifications)

To apply, you are asked to provide a one-page pitch detailing your suitability to perform the duties of the position with reference to the selection criteria. You are also asked to provide 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, adaptable, 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.

📌 Principal Research Officer (Australia)
🏢 Department of the Senate
📍 Australia