About the department The Department of Industry, Science and Resources and our broader portfolio are integral to the Australian Government's economic agenda. Our purpose is to help the government build a better future for all Australians through enabling a productive, resilient and sustainable economy, enriched by science and technology. We do this by: Growing innovative & competitive businesses, industries and regions Investing in science and technology Strengthening the resources sector. The APS and the department offer a clear direction and meaningful work. You will be able to create positive impact in people's lives whilst contributing to improved outcomes for Australia and our people. If you would like to feel a strong connection to your work and you are accountable, committed and open to change, join us in shaping Australia's future. Please see the APSC's APS Employee Value Proposition for more information on the benefits and value of employment within the APS. About the team The Grants Policy team, part of the Business Grants Hub (BGH), plays a central role in shaping and supporting the delivery of grant programs that drive Australia's industrial growth, scientific innovation, and sustainable resource development. The team ensures that grants are designed, governed, and implemented in line with best practice and government priorities. The Policy team contributes to: Policy development: Design and refine grants policy frameworks that align with the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles (CGRPs) and support delivery on departmental objectives. Program support: Provide strategic advice and operational guidance to program management areas across BGH. Governance and assurance: Develop tools, templates, and processes to support consistent and accountable grants management. Stakeholder engagement: Collaborate with internal teams, other government agencies, and external stakeholders to co-design grant programs and enhance policy outcomes. Continuous improvement: Lead reform initiatives and contribute to both agency and whole-of-government efforts to improve grants administration. The BGH Division manages the design and delivery of grant programs on behalf of 11 Commonwealth agencies, including our own department, overseeing over $8 billion in government investment in Australian businesses. Grants play a critical role in: supporting growth in businesses and industries, fostering research and innovation, strengthening communities, helping the environment, providing emergency relief. The opportunity This recruitment process will be used for the purpose of engaging non-ongoing employees for an initial period of up to 6-months with the possibility of extension or ongoing conversion. What's in it for you? Working in grants policy offers a unique opportunity to shape programs that foster innovation, stimulate economic growth, and deliver meaningful outcomes for the community. You'll play a key role in advancing national priorities, collaborating with industry and research partners, and helping ensure public funding delivers real value for Australians. Our ideal candidate We're seeking a motivated and detail-oriented policy officer/senior policy officer who is passionate about supporting Australian businesses and communities. The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator, a collaborative team player, and someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced, policy-driven environment. You will have: The ability to contribute to the development and refinement of grants policy frameworks and experience in researching, analysing, and drafting policy documents, briefing notes, and internal guidance. Familiarity with the public sector financial management principles, and capacity to support compliance and assurance activities in grants administration. Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders and ability to communicate clearly and professionally in both written and verbal formats. Experience in supporting the design, delivery, and evaluation of grant programs and ability to use data and evidence to inform policy decisions and improve program outcomes. Willingness to work collaboratively within a team and contribute to a positive, inclusive workplace culture and ability to support colleagues and share knowledge across the team. Be comfortable working in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities, and proactive in identifying issues and contributing to solutions. Strong organisational skills and attention to detail in managing tasks and documentation. Demonstrated integrity, accountability, and a commitment to delivering public value. Previous experience in a policy role, grants administration or managing Cabinet processes will be highly regarded. What you'll gain from the experience You will gain diverse and valuable experiences, including hands-on involvement in policy development. This includes contributing directly to the design and refinement of grants policy that supports national priorities across industry, science, and resources, offering exciting professional development opportunities. You will gain exposure to high-level policy work that shapes national grant programs and develop a deeper understanding of government decision-making processes. This includes involvement in ministerial briefings, Cabinet processes, and interdepartmental collaboration. The role also supports your active participation in policy reform and continuous improvement initiatives, influencing how public funds are invested. You'll contribute to programs that advance national prosperity, promote scientific excellence, and support sustainable resource use. The key duties of the position include As an APS5 Grants Policy Officer you will: Collaborate with stakeholders across government, industry, and research sectors to inform policy development and program delivery. Coordinate input to high-level policy documents, including ministerial briefs, Cabinet submissions, and internal guidance materials for grants governance. Assist in the preparation and review of grant policy guidance, ensuring clarity, consistency, and alignment with departmental objectives. Engage professionally with stakeholders, responding to enquiries and providing accurate information in a timely manner. Support the Grants Policy team by coordinating contribution to cross-agency initiatives, including interdepartmental working groups and whole-of-government grant reform efforts. Apply sound judgement in interpreting and applying relevant legislation and regulatory frameworks, ensuring compliance with Commonwealth grants rules and financial management standards. Contribute to the evaluation and continuous improvement of grant policy processes by gathering insights and supporting reporting activities. Work collaboratively within the team and across the department to support effective policy coordination and knowledge sharing. Maintain awareness of emerging issues and trends in grants policy to support informed decision-making and proactive policy responses. Demonstrate accountability and integrity, maintaining accurate records and upholding APS values and ethical standards. As an APS6 Senior Grants Policy Officer you will: Develop and refine grant policy frameworks that support Australia's industrial growth, scientific advancement, and resource sustainability. Provide expert policy advice on the design and delivery of grant programs aligned with national priorities such as innovation, clean energy, and economic resilience. Draft clear and persuasive policy documents, including ministerial briefs, discussion papers, and internal guidance materials. Interpret and apply relevant legislation and regulatory frameworks, ensuring compliance with Commonwealth grants rules and financial management standards. Collaborate with stakeholders across government, industry, and research sectors to inform policy development and program delivery. Monitor and evaluate grant program performance, using data and insights to support continuous improvement and accountability. Support strategic planning and risk management for grant initiatives, identifying emerging issues and recommending mitigation strategies. Contribute to cross-agency initiatives, including interdepartmental working groups and whole-of-government grant reform efforts. Mentor junior staff and contribute to team capability, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation. Stay informed on industry trends and policy developments, ensuring grant programs remain responsive to Australia's evolving economic and scientific landscape.
