The Department of the House of Representatives is seeking applications from those interested in directly supporting the work of the House of Representatives and members of Parliament at Parliament House in Canberra. This is an ongoing/non-ongoing opportunity within the Committee Office. The Committee Office supports parliamentary committees in their work of examining policy and legislation, and of scrutinising the executive government, through the provision of procedural, research, analytical, drafting and administrative support. Staff normally work in small Secretariat teams, however, are expected to work flexibly and support other Secretariats as needed. About the role The Inquiry Secretary is a senior officer in a secretariat headed by a Committee Secretary, providing research, advisory, report writing and administrative support to one or more parliamentary committees. The Inquiry Secretary supports the Committee Secretary in providing advice to committee chairs and members regarding parliamentary practice and procedure, and in leading and developing junior secretariat staff. Inquiry Secretary roles may require domestic travel to support the Committee. The department is committed to leadership at all levels and there is an expectation that all staff are able to demonstrate leadership in their professional experience. Security Assessment: Designated committees will require appropriate security clearances. The key duties of the position include The Inquiry Secretary will 1. As a senior officer in the secretariat, provide research, advisory, report writing and administrative support to one or more parliamentary committees. 2. Under the direction of the Committee Secretary, advise a committee chair or the chair and other members as required, including: support the planning and management of inquiries and other legislative oversight functions of the committee; conduct research and analysis; provide written and oral advice; arrange meetings and hearings, and record minutes; provide advice and information to witnesses, officials and the general public on committee business; advise on aspects of parliamentary practice and procedure relevant to the work of the committee; and draft and prepare for publication reports, discussion papers and other documents. 3. Assist the Committee Secretary in the effective management of a secretariat, including: leading, managing and developing staff as required; implementing the department's policies and procedures; committee record keeping; and performing other duties as required. NOTE: The Parliamentary Service employee assigned these duties may be required to rotate to other areas of the department.
