• We are seeking a highly motivated and results-driven individual to join our National Security Programs team.
• Be part of a dynamic and engaging organisational culture.
• Collaborate with a team committed to delivering exceptional outcomes in national security.

About ASPI

ASPI is one of the most authoritative and widely quoted contributors to public discussion of strategic policy issues in the Indo-Pacific region and a recognised and authoritative Australian voice in international discussion on strategic, national security, cyber, technology and foreign interference issues.

ASPI was established by the Australian Government in 2001 to provide independent advice on Defence and strategic issues. ASPI’s Charter, which guides all our work, explains the government’s aims in establishing ASPI as:

• Improving the quality of policy advice received by government by providing contestability.
• Nourishing public debate and understanding of Defence and strategic affairs.
• Developing professional strategic policy expertise in Australia.

ASPI maintains a unique position as an independent institute, located in the heart of Canberra, jointly serving the national interest alongside government by providing contestability in a constructive and policy-focused manner.

ASPI experts bring extensive experience across whole-of-government, Defence, and academic domains, spanning our key research areas:

• Cyber, Technology and Security.
• Defence and Strategy.
• National Security Programs.

About the Role

ASPI’s National Security Programs are a series of inter-related programs that support Australia’s national security focusing on issues that are fundamental to Defence capability and national resilience. The programs include Northern Australia, Climate and Security, Strategic Policing and Law Enforcement, Counterterrorism, Statecraft and Intelligence, Agricultural Security, and Critical Minerals.

As the National Security Programs continue to grow, we have identified a new position that will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and continued success of these programs.

The successful applicant will be joining a dedicated, collaborative team of professionals and subject matter experts. This fast-paced, varied, and demanding role is suited to an individual who is highly organised, proactive, collaborative, and communicates professionally.

Duty Statement

The successful candidate will need to demonstrate their ability to:

• Provide administrative support, program coordination, project management, or research assistance, preferably in a government policy, research, or academic environment.
• Support the Director and Deputy Director including calendar management and coordination of domestic and international travel.
• Engage with diverse stakeholders across government and industry backed up by excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Coordinate logistics for meetings, events, and small conferences in Canberra and across Australia.
• Support the development of policy briefs, reports, and research documents.
• Work independently, prioritise and balance complex tasks, solve problems, and adapt to change under pressure.

Selection Criteria

Essential Criteria

• Highly developed administrative and organisational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Effective written and communication skills including the ability to consult with people at all levels including people in government, academia and private sector whilst representing ASPI in a highly professional manner.
• Demonstrated reliability and the ability to exercise sound judgement and discretion when dealing with pressures and difficult, complex situations.
• Demonstrated self-management skills including the ability to show initiative, problem solve, work independently, manage competing priorities and deadlines, respond well under pressure and work as part of a team.
• High standard of computer literacy including experience with the suite of Microsoft 365 tools and SharePoint.

Conditions

The role is based in Barton, and due to the nature of the work, remote work arrangements are not suitable. However, there is flexibility to negotiate core hours with an early start and finish.

Remuneration will be commensurate with the role’s responsibilities and the candidate’s experience.

ASPI fosters an inclusive workplace and strongly encourages applications from women and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted to [email protected] by close of business 24 February 2025 and must include a resume and cover letter. In your cover letter, please outline:

• Why you are interested in working at ASPI.
• Your experience in performing similar duties.
• Your availability to begin the role.

Ensure attachments are in PDF format and titled as follows:

• Last Name_First Name_Cover Letter
• Last Name_First Name_CV

Early application is encouraged, as we reserve the right to close the vacancy once suitable applications are received.

ASPI promotes a workplace that actively seeks to include, welcome and values unique contributions of all people. The Institute strongly encourages women and people from diverse cultural backgrounds including applicants from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds to apply.