First Assistant Secretary

About the Company

As a First Assistant Secretary in the Attorney General's Department, you will lead a division and play a key role in shaping the performance, capability, and culture of the organisation. You will set direction, align resources and lead through others to deliver the Department's highest priorities. This includes building and supporting senior leaders, strengthening capability across your division, and creating a culture that is accountable, inclusive and focused on outcomes. You will work across groups to ensure priorities are clear, effort is coordinated, and outcomes are delivered to a high standard. The Department plays a central role in supporting Australia's legal system and integrity settings, working across government on issues of national significance. Our work spans a wide and diverse portfolio, requiring close engagement with the courts and legal sector, integrity bodies, and oversight agencies, and across the national security community. We partner with states and territories to support the effective operation of Australia's justice system and work with First Nations communities to improve outcomes and support Closing the Gap. We also engage with community organisations, international partners, and the private sector to ensure our legal and policy settings remain effective and responsive. This breadth reflects the Department's role in supporting the rule of law, strengthening public confidence in institutions, and improving access to justice for all Australians.

About the Role

Within this context, you will lead significant policy, legislative and program work, providing clear, evidence-based advice to Ministers and senior decision makers. You will operate in sensitive and high-profile areas, applying sound judgement to manage risk, balance competing priorities, and progress reform. You will work across portfolios and jurisdictions to support practical, joined up outcomes, and contribute to the ongoing effectiveness of Australia's legal and integrity systems. We are looking for leaders who bring clear thinking, sound judgement, and a strong commitment to public service. First Assistant Secretaries are expected to lead with integrity and cultural awareness, and contribute to priority reforms, including Closing the Gap.

Responsibilities

• Lead a division and contribute to the broader leadership of the department.
• Shape priorities, align resources, and ensure work is delivered to a high standard.
• Operate with a strong enterprise perspective, collaborating across groups.
• Support effective decision making at senior levels.
• Build and sustain capability, developing senior leaders and setting clear expectations.
• Create an environment where people are supported to perform and improve.
• Embed a culture that reflects accountability, inclusion, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Manage risk in high profile and sensitive areas, balancing competing priorities.
• Influence across government and with external stakeholders.
• Build effective working relationships and navigate differing perspectives.

Qualifications

Some positions require formal legal qualifications. For these roles, applicants must hold an appropriate law degree or admission in Australia as a legal practitioner. Please refer to the AGD Performance Expectations for more details.

Required Skills

• Strong organisational and resource management capability.
• The ability to influence and collaborate across boundaries.
• Sound judgement and risk management capability.
• A focus on performance, accountability and continuous improvement.
• A commitment to integrity, inclusion and culturally informed leadership, including Closing the Gap.

Pay range and compensation package

Generous remuneration and working conditions including 15.4% Super contribution, generous leave entitlements including cultural leave, and salary sacrifice options.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Department takes pride in actively creating a culturally safe, inclusive, and caring environment. We are dedicated to employing a diverse workforce and empowering them to thrive. Our people reflect the rich life experiences and cultural backgrounds of all Australians. Whether contributing to the law, policy, or justice landscape of Australia, delivering governmental legal services, or supporting our workforce in the areas of IT, Data, HR or Media and Communication, people are at the heart of everything we do.

We provide opportunities to collaborate, learn from and work alongside others who are dedicated, intelligent and possess a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and lived experiences. You will have the opportunity to participate in challenging, inspiring, and stimulating initiatives in aid of a better Australia. When you work with us, you become part of a diverse and inclusive community where people are respected, supported, and encouraged to be their authentic selves.

How to Apply

The Attorney-General’s Department uses a range of selection tools to assist us in the hiring process. We uphold the Merit Principle, and our selection processes are designed to determine the best available person for the job.

As part of your application, you will need to provide:

– your current résumé

– the name and contact details of one referee, they should be a current supervisor

– a statement of claims describing how you meet the AGD Performance Expectations.

Email: ***email_hidden***

Call: 0452 199 031 quoting reference number 1194 Review AGD Performance Expectations here.

For more information please visit: Tips for preparing your application.