The Australian Government is seeking applications for the role of the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (the Ombudsman). About the Role: The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman is a statutory appointment made under the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Act 2015. The primary functions of the Ombudsman are to provide advocacy and assistance services for small businesses and family enterprises. The Ombudsman provides reports to the Minister with responsibility for small businesses as required under the Act, and to Government as required under the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013. The Ombudsman is responsible for ensuring the functions under the Act are delivered to high standards and quality, as well as engaging effectively with a wide range of stakeholders across government, industry peak bodies, and the business community. The Ombudsman's role under the advocacy function is to conduct research, identify concerns for small businesses and family enterprises arising out of legislation, policies and practices, and make relevant inquiries regarding their effect on small businesses and family enterprises. The Ombudsman also makes submissions or recommendations to inquiries into relevant legislation, policies and practices on their own initiative. Under the assistance function, the Ombudsman responds to requests for assistance by small businesses and family enterprises in relation to relevant actions, including referring matters to another Government agency, or if in relation to a dispute, making recommendations about how the dispute may be managed, including through alternate dispute resolution processes. The Ombudsman may give assistance by advising on and preparing a person's case for a no adverse costs order under subsection 82(4) of the Competition and Consumer Act 2013. The Ombudsman also has Dispute Resolution Advisor responsibilities under the Franchising, Horticulture, Dairy, and Oil Codes of Conduct. The Ombudsman leads, and is supported by, the office of the Ombudsman which currently has approximately 30 staff from the Department of the Treasury. The key duties of the position include Key duties of the position The successful applicant will: demonstrate leadership be able to manage complex operations work collaboratively with others, including federal, state and territory government agencies and external stakeholders, to meet objectives have a high level of judgement demonstrate a high standard of professional and personal integrity as well as capacity to promote these in an organisation (consistent with the APS Integrated Leadership System). Applicants should have experience in, or knowledge of, small business and family enterprise policy issues and dispute resolution frameworks. They should have an outstanding record of achievement in a relevant field. This is a full-time position situated in Canberra for a period of 5 years with the possibility of reappointment. Remuneration is determined by the Remuneration Tribunal. At a minimum, you must obtain a current baseline security clearance or successfully complete a clearance prior to commencement. SELECTION CRITERIA The successful candidate will have: demonstrated high level leadership, vision and exceptional judgement within complex decision-making, organisational and relationship environments demonstrated ability to manage large and/or complex operations demonstrated high standards of professional and personal integrity and capacity to promote these in an organisation demonstrated ability to develop strong and productive relationships across industry and government, and to work with others to meet objectives ability to oversee research, analysis and inquiry into matters, and to formulate sound advice and contributions regarding legislation, policies and practices affecting small businesses a strong understanding of policy formation and delivery of government processes with respect to small businesses substantial experience within, or knowledge of, small business issues, industry codes, and dispute resolution frameworks. How to Apply: Your application should be lodged with Derwent. Please go to www.derwentsearch.com.au. For enquiries, please contact Emma Alberici via email at publicsector@derwentsearch.com.au or on 0419 683 660. Applications close at precisely 11:59pm (AEST) on Sunday, 10 August 2025. As part of your application, you will need to provide: your Curriculum Vitae (CV (up to four pages)) a 'two-page pitch' describing how your skills and experience would contribute to the role details of at least two referees, if possible. You will be contacted before any approach to referees.
