About the Defence and Veterans' Service Commission The Defence and Veterans' Service Commission (DVSC) provides 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 Australian Government established the DVSC as a new Non-corporate Commonwealth Entity (NCE) on 29 September 2025 in response to the key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. Key functions of the DVSC include: Monitoring, inquiring and reporting on issues relevant to suicide and suicidality for serving and ex-serving ADF members Monitoring, inquiring and reporting on the implementation of the Government's response to the recommendations of the Defence and Veteran Suicide Royal Commission Improving supports for serving and ex-serving ADF members Working with coroners to understand issues contributing to Defence and veteran deaths by suicide Promoting an understanding of suicide risks and wellbeing for Defence members and veterans, including through engaging with people with lived experience. The DVSC has a wide range of powers akin to those of a Royal Commission to undertake special inquiries - including conducting hearings, summonsing people to give evidence under oath or affirmation, search warrants and notices to produce information. Find out more about the DVSC on www.dvsc.gov.au/about-us. Who we are and what we do The DVSC is an independent Commonwealth agency established by the Australian Government. We oversee, inquire and report on system reforms across the whole Defence and veteran ecosystem to prevent suicide and promote wellbeing for serving and ex-serving ADF members. We are physically located in Canberra, within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet under a shared service arrangement. While we transition our employment framework, the successful candidate may be on-boarded via the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and subsequently transitioned to the DVSC. Employment with the DVSC is offered under the Public Service (Terms and Conditions of Employment) (Defence and Veterans' Service Commission) Determination 2025. The DVSC offers: A respectful, inclusive and safe workplace where staff wellbeing is fostered and you are supported to perform at your best Attractive remuneration package including generous employer superannuation contributions and allowances Challenging yet fulfilling work that contributes to improving outcomes for Defence and Veteran personnel and their families Networking opportunities, on the job development and the opportunity to diversify. Who are we looking for? As a new agency, the DVSC is now recruiting staff and capabilities and will continue to do so over the coming year. You have an opportunity to join us now or at a point where your expertise can help influence and shape our strategy in support of the Commissioner's independent oversight of wide-ranging reforms across the Defence and veteran ecosystem. We are looking to recruit high performing and dedicated staff with a range of capabilities, who demonstrate integrity, independence and compassion. Prospective candidates should possess the capabilities, relevant skills or experience in one or more of the below areas: Inquiries Legal Oversight and Evaluation Communications and Engagement Research and Analysis Corporate and Governance People, Wellbeing and Integrity The key duties of the position include Our ideal candidate The DVSC is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We actively welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, individuals living with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and veterans. We value the unique perspectives and skills that each person brings and are dedicated to creating a supportive and respectful workplace where everyone can thrive. Prospective candidates should be highly motivated, agile and resilient individuals with a wide range of expertise and transferable skills. Our ideal candidate possesses the following attributes: Excellent organisational and time management skills, including the ability to manage competing priorities under tight timeframes Strong verbal and written communication skills. This includes the ability to influence, effectively challenge, and negotiate with stakeholders and experience tailoring communications products for diverse audiences Demonstrated ability to achieve outcomes under broad direction, both autonomously and as part of a team Ability to work effectively under pressure Demonstrate sound judgement, initiative and accountability, including willingness to support other team members and take ownership for one's work Act honestly, professionally and ethically in accordance with the APS Values, legislation and policy Integrity and impartiality, ability to provide advice and undertake work that is objective, evidence-based and free from bias Engage stakeholders with respect, sensitivity and cultural awareness, at all times Work constructively across agencies, sectors and disciplines to achieve the outcomes of the DVSC. Candidates should be aware: The work of the DVSC is sensitive in nature and potential candidates should consider how this will impact them before applying. This is an employment register used to fill a variety of potential vacancies across the DVSC and you will only be contacted regarding your application if an opportunity arises that matches your skills and experience Submitting an application does not guarantee you will receive an offer of employment Ongoing engagement or promotion under the Public Service Act 1999 is not possible through this register Flexible working arrangements will be considered on a case-by-case basis. A key focus of the DVSC's work is the prevention of suicide and suicidality. While the DVSC has a proactive wellbeing program, applicants are encouraged to consider their personal circumstances when applying for this role. Applicants can familiarise themselves with the findings and recommendations of the Final Report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. Please note - positions are based in our Canberra office.
