We are seeking Assistant Directors to help improve Plant Breeder’s Rights services, staff and customer experience, and business systems. ​

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Working within a small multidisciplinary team, you will engage with staff and customers, decide what improvements matter most, turn needs into project plans, delivery plans and requirements, and guide changes to PBR systems, services, practices, and processes through implementation and adoption.​

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Responsibilities will be allocated according to skills, experience, capacity and business priorities. You may have a stronger focus on product ownership or project delivery, while working collaboratively across both areas and providing cover when needed to maintain essential services.​ While the role will not initially have any direct reports, it is expected to recruit and supervise a current change and communications role anticipated to be established soon after appointment.

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The work includes:

- Working with customers, staff and subject matter experts to understand needs and identify opportunities to improve systems, services, practices, and processes.
- Prioritising, scoping, planning, and delivering projects and system improvements by balancing customer value, organisational priorities, legislative obligations, risks and available resources.
- Gathering and documenting detailed business and user requirements, expected outcomes and acceptance criteria.
- Planning and coordinating transition and adoption activities to prepare customers and staff for change and support successful implementation.
- Monitoring and reporting on progress, risks, issues and benefits, and collaborating with Product Owners and delivery teams to support consistent experiences across IP Australia’s business systems.

The key duties of the position include:

The successful candidates will demonstrate capabilities in:

• Planning and managing projects: defining scope, outcomes and responsibilities; preparing fit-for-purpose project and delivery plans; and monitoring progress, risks and dependencies.

• Planning and supporting change: helping users understand and prepare for change, supporting adoption, and measuring uptake to identify where further support is needed.

• Understanding needs in a regulatory environment: identifying customer and business needs and balancing them with organisational priorities, legislative obligations, risks, effort and available resources.

• Defining system requirements: working with customers, staff and subject matter experts to translate needs into clear, testable requirements,



acceptance criteria and expected outcomes.

• Analysing information and solving problems: applying evidence, judgement and practical analysis to inform decisions, resolve barriers and support delivery.

• Communicating and collaborating: engaging clearly with a variety of stakeholders orally and in writing to understand needs and support change management.

• Taking ownership and delivering outcomes: working autonomously, meeting commitments and delivering work to the required standard and timeframe.

• Supervising and developing an employee: setting clear expectations, providing feedback, managing performance and supporting capability development.

You do not need to have held a Product Owner or Project Manager title. We welcome relevant experience across product, project and business improvement work.

Eligibility

Under section 22(8) of the Public Service Act 1999, employees must be Australian citizens to be employed in the Australian Public Service (APS).

All applicants offered employment will be required to successfully undergo a pre-engagement screening check, even if they have a security clearance. The screening check involves reviewing your background & personal circumstances to minimise risks in giving access to IP Australia information/resources. This screening check is conducted in accordance with the Australian Government Protective Security Policy Framework requirements.

Some applicants may be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at a specified clearance level – please check the vacancy information section for security clearance requirements.

The successful applicant must be willing to disclose all relevant and required information.

Notes

We are looking to fill these positions on an ongoing or non-ongoing basis (for up to 12 months initially).

Future positions may be offered on an ongoing or non-ongoing basis subject to operational requirements. Where a non-ongoing position is offered, the role will be filled for a specified term of up to 12 months.

At the end of the recruitment process, a merit pool of suitable candidates may be created. Those found suitable will be advised that they have been placed in the pool.



The merit pool is valid for 18 months from the date the process was advertised. The merit pool may be used throughout the period to fill similar positions in the event positions become vacant.

IP Australia acknowledges that those with diverse experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds enhance our workplace and our capability for innovation. Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People, People with Disability and LGBTIQA+ people are encouraged to apply for any advertised position, that they may be suitable for, within IP Australia.

Getting to know the IP Australia

IP Australia is the Australian Government agency that drives innovation by administering intellectual property (IP) rights, including patents, trade marks, designs, and plant breeder’s rights. Our mission is simple: to help Australians turn great ideas into reality through a world-class IP system that fuels creativity, investment, and economic growth. Working with us means being part of a team that influences global IP frameworks, supports trade agreements, and educates businesses and individuals on the value of IP. We’re not just about protecting ideas—we’re about enabling innovation that benefits everyone. At IP Australia, we foster an inclusive and diverse culture where every individual feels respected and valued. We believe that diversity drives innovation, and we are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential. We understand the importance of flexibility and wellbeing. That’s why we offer hybrid work arrangements, flexible schedule, and programs to support mental health and overall wellbeing. Our focus on psychological safety ensures that employees feel secure and supported in their roles. Professional growth is a priority for us. We provide opportunities for skill development, education support, and clear pathways for career progression. Whether you’re starting your career or looking to advance, IP Australia offers the tools and resources to help you succeed. Our benefits are designed to support your lifestyle and future. With competitive conditions such as 15.4% superannuation contributions, salary packaging options, and family-friendly policies, we make sure our employees are well taken care of. Finally, integrity is at the heart of everything we do. We uphold the highest standards of fairness and respect, maintaining a workplace built on trust and collaboration. At IP Australia, you’ll be part of an organisation that values both people and purpose.

📌 Assistant Director, Project Delivery (Australian Capital Territory)
🏢 Ip Australia
📍 Australian Capital Territory