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 expected ongoing opportunity within the 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. Working in the Committee Office gives a close-up perspective on a unique aspect of the parliamentary environment. Judgement, professionalism and a willingness to learn are essential. About the role The Defence Amendment (Parliamentary Joint Committee on Defence) Bill 2025 requires the appointment of a Parliamentary Joint Committee on Defence (PJCOD). Subject to passage of the legislation, the Committee will be required to inquire into matters referred to it by the Senate or the House of Representatives or a Minister of the Commonwealth Government, or on its own motion. The Committee will also have a wide range of standing review functions. The Committee Secretary will lead a committee secretariat of research and administrative staff supporting the PJCOD. The Secretary will provide efficient and effective research, procedural, analytical, drafting and administrative advice to the chair and members. The Secretary is the key source of advice to the committee chair and members on matters of practice and procedure. Committee 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. The key duties of the position include The Committee Secretary will: 1. Lead and manage a committee secretariat and the budget of the committee. 2. Advise the committee chair and members on matters relating to procedure, administration, inquiry management and the subject areas of the work of the committee. 3. Co-ordinate or oversee and contribute as necessary to: the planning, conduct, management and resourcing of committee inquiries; the facilitation of stakeholder and public engagement in the work of the committee; and the drafting of the Chair's report(s). 4. Develop the capability of secretariat employees including in relation to leadership and management, research, writing and knowledge of parliamentary practice and procedure. 5. Contribute to the leadership and corporate aims of the Committee Office and the department. NOTE: The Parliamentary Service employee assigned these duties may be required to rotate to other areas of the department.
