Australian Government

Australian Government

About the Role Join the Protocol and International Visits Branch within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, where you'll play a vital role in enhancing Australia's international relationships and diplomatic presence. This APS Level 5 position offers the unique opportunity to contribute to state occasions, official visits, and ceremonial events that shape Australia's global image and strengthen international partnerships. The Protocol and International Visits Branch manages and coordinates complex arrangements for high-profile events, working closely with the Office of the Official Secretary to the Governor-General, Prime Minister's Office, Ministers' offices, diplomatic representatives, and various government departments across all levels. Key Responsibilities Event Coordination and Management: Assist with comprehensive arrangements for Guest of Government visits to Australia, including detailed planning, logistics coordination, and stakeholder management Prime Ministerial Support: Support arrangements for the Prime Minister's overseas visits and facilitate virtual meetings between the Prime Minister and international leaders National Event Planning: Contribute to the organization of national and official events, including high-level meetings, diplomatic hospitality functions, ceremonial occasions, and state funeral and memorial services Documentation and Communication: Prepare accurate, well-structured drafts of official documentation, including detailed briefing materials, event programs, and protocols for various visits and diplomatic occasions Stakeholder Liaison: Build and maintain professional relationships with diverse internal and external stakeholders, including diplomatic missions, government departments, and international partners Administrative Excellence: Coordinate various administrative and logistical tasks, managing private visit arrangements and transit logistics for foreign dignitaries visiting Australia Travel and Accommodation Management: Handle complex booking arrangements for flights, accommodation, and ground transportation for official delegations and events Database and Reporting: Maintain accurate database records and prepare official reports on visit outcomes and event delivery Protocol Development: Identify learning opportunities and develop comprehensive understanding of Commonwealth Protocol practices, standards, and diplomatic etiquette Quality Assurance: Monitor progress on multiple projects simultaneously to ensure quality outcomes and strict adherence to documentation procedures and security protocols Essential Requirements Australian Citizenship: Must be an Australian citizen by completion of recruitment process Security Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain Negative Vetting Level 1 (Secret) security clearance Collaborative Approach: Demonstrated ability to work effectively as a team member with strong work ethic, maintaining professionalism and discretion in sensitive diplomatic environments Personal Attributes: Display confidence, resilience, integrity, inclusion, and sound judgement when dealing with high-profile stakeholders and complex situations Adaptability and Commitment: Show commitment to delivery and flexibility under challenging and time-sensitive circumstances, often involving last-minute changes to diplomatic schedules Strategic Thinking: Contribute meaningfully to development of plans, strategies, and team goals that support Australia's diplomatic objectives Attention to Detail: Demonstrate meticulous attention to detail while maintaining ability to see broader strategic objectives Relationship Building: Build and sustain positive relationships with team members and stakeholders at all organizational levels, including senior government officials and diplomatic representatives Cultural Sensitivity: Treat people with respect and courtesy, displaying strong cultural and religious awareness essential for international diplomatic work Technology Proficiency: Recognize value of technology and its application for improving collaboration and business delivery in fast-paced government environment Flexibility: Willingness to work extended and varied hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by diplomatic schedules Travel Availability: Readiness to travel interstate as operational requirements demand Employment Conditions This position is available as both ongoing and non-ongoing employment, with final employment type determined through negotiation with the preferred candidate. Non-ongoing appointments may be offered for up to 24 months, with potential for extension or conversion to ongoing employment within 18 months of advertisement opening. Flexible Work Arrangements The Department recognizes the benefits of workplace flexibility and considers individual circumstances alongside operational requirements. Various flexible arrangements may be available, including part-time work options, variable start and finish times, and work-from-home opportunities where operationally feasible. Compensation includes appropriate provisions for additional hours worked outside standard business hours through the Department's Flex Time or Overtime arrangements. The role offers competitive public sector benefits and the unique opportunity to contribute to Australia's international diplomatic success.