The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) leads the sustainable development of Western Australia’s regions and agriculture, aquaculture, food and fisheries sectors. In everything we do, we take an approach to protect, grow and innovate WA’s economy, community and environment.

To learn more about ourdepartment, our team and the work we do, please visit our website.

About the opportunity

We currently have multiple Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer positions available for immediate filling. Candidatesfound suitable through this process may be offered a permanent or fixed term opportunity and where other vacancies arise over the next 12 months, this process will be used to appoint suitable candidates.

As the successful candidate, you will support the Director Animal Biosecurity and Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) by leading the development and implementation of policies and programs that protect and advance Western Australia’s animal biosecurity status. This important work underpins the state’s domestic and export market access for animal products, and protects our animal industries and the community.

At a highly recognised qualified level, and demonstrating exceptionally high levels of independence, initiative and judgement, the Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer works closely with a range of stakeholders to develop and influence state and national animal health policies, programs and strategies. The successful candidate will provide sound and trusted advice that directly impacts the growth and development of sustainable and internationally competitive WA animal industries.

They will also be responsible for leading program delivery and providing strategic, operational and specialist technical advice on activities to enhance outcomes in relation to animal biosecurity programs, including:

- preparedness for responding to and recovering from emergency animal disease outbreaks,
- border controls, surveillance and animal disease control and eradication, and
- product integrity and traceability.

DPIRD is an emergency management department and on occasion, employees may be required to work or travel during, or outside of,



normal business hours to assist with incidents and emergencies.

Diversity and inclusion

We value diversity and understand diverse workplaces are more effective and innovative so we encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, women, youth, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. As our department is an equal opportunity employer, supported by the Equal Chance Act 1984 (WA), preference may be given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people of diverse sexualities and youth.

About the team and benefits

We are genuinely committed to developing and supporting our workforce to be their best by creating a positive work environment, supporting work/life balance and encouraging our employees to learn on the job and build their skills.

Some of the benefits of this job and working at DPIRD include:

- Opportunity to work for a department that is renowned as a world leader in a range of fields, from research and development to biosecurity and sustainability.
- Contributing to outcomes for theHazard Management Agencyfor animal or plant pest or disease emergencies.
- Opportunity to be a valued team member undertaking a range of interesting and important projects.
- Access to a range of flexible working arrangements, including working from home and a range of generous leave entitlements.

Assessment criteria and eligibility

We are looking for individuals with:

- Substantial experience:
1. leading the design, development and delivery of strategic animal health policy initiatives.
2. in animal health and biosecurity frameworks, industry engagement and leading complex projects.
3. enforcing and providing advice on legislation, regulations, policies and guidelines relating to biosecurity.

- Exceptional written,



verbal and interpersonal skills, including the ability to confidently liaise, collaborate with and communicate scientific information to departmental staff, industry and the community.
- Exceptional analytical skills including the ability to anticipate opportunities and risks, think laterally and provide innovative solutions to complex and challenging issues and problems, in order to drive continuous improvement and meet organisational objectives.
- Exceptional leadership and management skills with the ability to negotiate with, motivate and influence people; and a focus on providing sound strategic advice.

To be eligible for appointment we will also require you to submit:

- copies of your degree in Veterinary Science (obtained from an Australian university or recognised equivalent),
- copies of your current recognised registration (or able to obtain prior to commencement) with the Veterinary Surgeons Board of Western Australia,
- a copy of your current and valid Western Australian C (car) class driver's licence, or equivalent, and
- evidence of your right to work in Australia (citizenship, residency, relevant visa),as part of your application to demonstrate you meet the position requirements.

For furtherinformation and requirements for this position,please see the attachedJob Description Form (JDF).

Further information and support

To find out more about the opportunity, please contact Dr Mia Carbon, Deputy Director General Biosecurity and Emergency Management on 0477 335 264 during office hours or send an email to [email protected].

If you have any support or access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in the assessment process, or other questions about the recruitment process, please contact our Talent team via [email protected] or (08) 6552 1943.

Privacy and your personal information

DPIRD handles and releases information in accordance with relevant privacy and information access laws including the Freedom of Information Act 1992 and the Privacy and Responsible Information Sharing Act 2024 (WA) (PRIS). Further information is available

📌 Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Pool (Western Australia)
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📍 Western Australia