The Role The Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA) is recruiting multiple APS 6 Project Officer roles within the Capability Delivery Branch. ASCA is a fast-paced and innovative Defence organisation that offers unique professional development opportunities. Working across a diverse portfolio of programs and projects, you will gain broad experience, expand your skills and contribute to the delivery of cutting-edge capability outcomes.

Success in these roles requires adaptability, initiative and the ability to navigate complex challenges in a dynamic environment. APS 6 Project Officers play a key role in supporting the successful delivery of projects and programs. Working with a high degree of autonomy, you will provide project management and governance support, ensuring activities are planned, coordinated, monitored and reported in line with Defence requirements.

You will contribute to project planning, financial management, and risk management, reporting and stakeholder engagement. You will also provide advice to project teams and leadership, support decision-making processes, and identify opportunities to improve project delivery outcomes.

Key Responsibilities include

- Coordinate and support project delivery activities in line with project management methodologies and governance requirements.
- Develop and maintain project schedules, plans, registers, reports and documentation.
- Provide governance support, including preparation of briefs, submissions, reports and committee papers.
- Monitor project performance and contribute to the management of risks, issues and mitigation strategies.
- Support procurement, financial and administrative activities.
- Monitor budgets, forecast requirements and prepare financial reporting.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders across Defence, industry and government.
- Research, analyse and provide advice on project management,



governance and business matters.
- Ensure compliance with Defence policies, legislative requirements and security obligations.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, lessons learned activities and business process enhancements.
- Support strategic planning and broader program management activities.

If you enjoy variety, thrive in a fast-moving workplace and want to make a meaningful contribution to Defence capability, we encourage you to apply.

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 The ASCA mission is to accelerate the development and transition of asymmetric capabilities to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) through innovation, in order to meet Defence priority needs. Working in close collaboration with the defence industry — including Australian primes, SMEs, and research organisations — ASCA’s priorities are shaped by the National Defence Strategy, the Defence Innovation, Science and Technology Strategy, and AUKUS Pillar II – Advanced Capabilities.

Since its launch on 1 July 2023, ASCA has played a key role in the most significant reshaping of Defence innovation in decades,



designed to deliver vital capabilities for the ADF. Priorities are delivered through three programs – Missions, Innovation Incubation, and Emerging Disruptive Technologies. Further information can be found at www.asca.gov.au.

ASCA’s Capability Delivery Branch translates innovative concepts and emerging technologies into operationally relevant capability. The branch bridges rapid innovation, acquisition and Defence capability management to accelerate the transition of priority technologies from concept to fielded outcomes. Through disciplined program management and close collaboration with operational users, Capability Delivery enables ASCA to rapidly scale and embed novel capabilities to meet evolving Defence challenges.

Our Ideal Candidate

ASCA is seeking candidate/s who thrive in a high tempo and dynamic environment. Within ASCA, staff are encouraged and empowered to take calculated risks and challenge the status quo whilst acting with integrity. To succeed in this role/s, you must be an adaptable and resilient individual, show initiative and be a team player who contributes to a respectful workplace.

The ideal candidate will

- Demonstrate experience and a high level of confidence in their ability as a Project Management specialist.
- Have willingness to align with the Defence values of service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence.
- Have the ability to thrive in a constantly, rapidly changing environment.
- Have willingness to learn and be challenged every day.
- Be supremely adaptable, always looking for faster, more efficient ways to work, within the guidelines of good governance.
- Be tenacious, resilient and thrive in team environments.
- Have effective communication with handling stakeholder relationships.

Security Clearance:

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at “Negative Vetting Level 1”.

📌 Project Officer (Australia)
🏢 Department Of Defence
📍 Australia