The Role

Strategy, Policy and International Group is seeking high-performing and motivated EL1 Assistant Directors to fill current and anticipated vacancies across the group. As an EL 1 Assistant Director, you will lead teams and deliver complex policy outcomes that support Defence's strategic objectives and Australia's national interests. Working with a considerable degree of independence, you will contribute to the development, implementation and review of policy, strategy and engagement initiatives in a dynamic and complex environment.

You will be responsible for leading policy development, shaping advice for decision-makers, managing projects and work programs, and supporting the delivery of Defence priorities. You will work closely with stakeholders across Defence, government agencies and external organisations to build partnerships, coordinate activities and deliver outcomes. Successful candidates will demonstrate strong judgement, initiative and the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining a focus on high-quality outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

- Leading the development, coordination and implementation of complex policy and engagement activities.
- Providing expert advice and recommendations to support strategic decision-making.
- Preparing high-quality briefs, submissions, correspondence and other products for senior leaders.
- Conducting research, analysis and strategic assessments on emerging policy issues and trends.
- Managing projects, programs and work priorities to achieve business outcomes.
- Building and maintaining productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Coordinating responses to complex issues and contributing to policy development and implementation.
- Supporting organisational improvement initiatives and promoting continuous improvement.
- Leading,



mentoring and developing team members to foster a high-performing and collaborative culture.

About our Team

Strategy, Policy and International Group is a fully integrated civilian-military workforce, bringing together highly capable people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and disciplines who embody Defence and Australian Public Service values.

We offer flexible working arrangements and a range of formal and informal professional development opportunities. Our people work on complex policy and national security issues that have a direct impact on Australia's strategic interests and international relationships.

Working within Strategy, Policy and International Group provides opportunities to contribute to matters of national significance while developing expertise across a broad range of policy, strategy and engagement functions. We value professional growth, collaboration and mobility across teams and areas of responsibility.

Our Ideal Candidate

We are seeking motivated, collaborative and outcomes-focused leaders to contribute to the group’s strategic objectives.

Successful applicants will demonstrate

- Robust analytical, research and problem-solving skills.
- Experience leading teams and managing the delivery of complex work.
- Sound judgement and the ability to make decisions in a dynamic environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management capabilities.
- The ability to influence outcomes and work collaboratively across organisational boundaries.
- Experience managing projects, programs or policy initiatives.
- Resilience, adaptability and the ability to manage competing priorities.
- A commitment to professionalism, accountability and continuous improvement.

Security Clearance:

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at “Negative Vetting Level 2”.

📌 Policy, Program and Project Assistant Directors (Australia)
🏢 Department Of Defence
📍 Australia