About the Defence and Veterans' Service Commission The Defence and Veterans' Service Commission (DVSC) will provide independent oversight and evidence-based advice to government on reforms to improve suicide prevention and wellbeing outcomes for serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) members. The Interim DVSC currently resides within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) but will commence as a separate entity on 29 September 2025. It is expected that staff will be employed under the Public Service (Terms and Conditions of Employment) (Defence and Veterans' Service Commission) Determination 2025. The DVSC will be established as a new Non-corporate Commonwealth Entity (NCE) to oversee reform across the whole Defence ecosystem. Establishment of the DVSC is in response to recommendation 122 of the Final Report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. As a new Commonwealth Entity, the DVSC is looking to recruit high performing and dedicated staff from a range of capabilities, who demonstrate integrity, independence and compassion. Key functions of the DVSC include improving supports for serving and ex-serving ADF members, collaborating with coroners to understand issues contributing to defence and veteran deaths by suicide, promoting the understanding of suicide risks for defence members and veterans and factors that can improve the wellbeing of defence members and veterans, including through engaging with people with lived experiences and promoting that lived experience and monitor, and inquire and report on the Commonwealth's implementation of the Government's response to the recommendations of the Defence and Veteran Suicide Royal Commission. Working at the DVSC Applicants are encouraged to consider their personal circumstances when applying for this role. The DVSC's areas of focus include monitoring, inquiring and reporting on the prevention of suicide, suicidality and the promotion of wellbeing amongst serving and ex-serving ADF members. We encourage applicants to familiarise themselves with the findings and recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide Final Report. The DVSC has a proactive wellbeing program in place, if you have any concerns speak to the contact officer before submitting your application. Governance and Corporate The Governance and Corporate team is responsible for delivering enabling services that support the operation of the Commission and facilitates the Commission's compliance with legislation, policies and guidelines as a non-corporate Commonwealth entity. The section is responsible for managing the efficient and effective operations of the DVSC, across finance, procurement, security, facilities, ICT, information management and governance. The section ensures DVSC's compliance with regulatory requirements and obligations and managing operational risk to protect the Commission's assets and reputation. It will collaboratively develop and implement the Commission's strategic framework, and contribute to the delivery of whole of agency priorities, with responsibility for the delivery of the DVSC's strategic objectives and strategic projects relating to enabling functions. It provides strategic direction and Commission-wide oversight across its corporate functions and strategic support to the reporting teams. The Section supports efficient resource management and corporate accountability through functions such as financial management, performance reporting, parliamentary services, procurement and facilities management. About the Role We are seeking an experienced and motivated Finance Officer to join the DVSC. You will play a key role in the DVSC through managing financial operations, providing high-quality analysis and advice and supporting the DVSC to meet its financial obligations. You will: Set internal budgets and monitor expenditure, provide forecasting and financial reporting Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements as per the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 requirements and Australian Accounting Standards Provide specialist financial advice to business areas and the Chief Operating Officer to support effective decision-making Coordinate financial input into corporate planning, performance reporting and annual reporting Analyse expenditure trends and identify variances, risks and opportunities for efficiency Manage financial reconciliations, journals, and end-of-month and year processes including the preparation of financial statements Work with the portfolio entity, providing the DVSC's input for budget publications Support the DVSC with costing and liaison with the Department of Finance for new policy proposals Support procurement, contract management, and asset management activities in line with the Commonwealth Procurement Rules. The key duties of the position include Capabilities of our ideal candidate The occupant of this role demonstrates integrity, independence and compassion while delivering the work of the Commission and: Strong knowledge of Commonwealth financial management frameworks, including the PGPA Act and Rules Experience in budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting for government Proficiency in financial systems Highly developed analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong attention to detail Ability to translate financial information for a non-technical audience. Qualifications / Experience The following is required: Chartered Accountant (CA)/Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) or equivalent Demonstrated broad experience in public accounting practices including internal budgeting, financial statements, taxation and asset management Experience using a Financial Management Information System Excellent written, oral and interpersonal skills, including the communication of financial information in a clear and concise manner. The following is desirable: Experience managing the finance function of a small or extra small Commonwealth government entity. Experience using the Commonwealth CBMS system.
