The role involves leading and shaping high‑quality information rights work across a fast‑paced team. You’ll guide decision‑making, oversee data reporting and KPI monitoring, and drive end‑to‑end regulatory processes with a focus on efficiency, fairness and public service values. Daily activity includes coaching teams, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and delivering well evidenced, legally sound outcomes.
Role Specifications
| Job Title | Director and Principal Director (multiple positions) |
|---|---|
| Vacancy Number | VN-0768512 |
| Position Number | OAIC-2026-004 |
| Classification | Executive Level 2 |
| Salary | $146,700 – $167,421 per annum |
| Job Type | Full-Time; Part-Time, Ongoing; Non-Ongoing |
| Primary Locations | Canberra ACT, Sydney NSW, Melbourne VIC, Brisbane QLD, Adelaide SA, Perth WA, Hobart TAS, Darwin NT |
| Future Merit Locations | Various locations – ACT, NSW, VIC, WA, QLD, TAS, NT, SA |
| Office Arrangement | Hybrid |
| Office Arrangement Details | The OAIC operates a hybrid model with a combination of remote working and office attendance. |
| Closing Date | Thursday 16 April 2026 |
| Agency Website | https://www.oaic.gov.au/about-us/ |
About the Opportunity
The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) is seeking experienced leaders to guide the Information Rights Division as it evolves its end-to-end regulatory model. This is a chance to shape privacy, freedom of information and information policy in Australia, while working in a collaborative, values‑driven environment that prioritises integrity, service and accountability.
Successful applicants will join a team that values proactive leadership, evidence‑based decision making and public service to the community. You’ll work alongside Commissioners and staff to deliver strategic direction, build strong stakeholder relationships and champion a harm‑focused, proportionate approach to regulation.
Duties (What You Will Do)
| Key Responsibilities | Specific Tasks |
|---|---|
| Provide leadership and direction | Lead staff in fast-paced, high‑workload environments; maintain clear guidance and support. |
| Oversee data reporting and KPI monitoring | Prepare performance reports; ensure accuracy and timely decision making. |
| Develop decision-making tools | Create tools to guide timely, lawful decisions in high‑volume case management. |
| Prepare evidence-based decisions | Lead teams to finalise well-documented reasons for decisions under statutory frameworks. |
| Exercise delegations and judgement | Operate within statutory and administrative law principles; apply sound judgement. |
| stakeholder engagement | Communicate with influence; manage interactions with empathy, impartiality and respect. |
| Collaborate across the OAIC | Work with colleagues to deliver integrated regulatory models and build trusted relationships. |
| External representation | Represent OAIC in external forums and maintain productive relationships with agencies, industry and private sector. |
About You (Eligibility)
- Australian citizenship is required under Section 22 of the Public Service Act 1999.
- Security clearance at baseline level or higher, with background, identification and character checks.
- Experience in leading large teams in a high‑workload regulatory or government context.
- Strong ability to deliver data‑driven decisions, manage risk and apply administrative law principles.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management and staff development skills.
- Commitment to APS Values: impartial, committed to service, accountable, respectful, ethical and stewardship.
Important Information for Applicants
Eligibility: This recruitment requires Australian citizenship and a minimum Baseline security clearance. The OAIC emphasises a harm‑focused, proportionate regulatory approach and values diversity and inclusion in the APS.
Keyword integration note: In addition to standard eligibility details, this notice includes a reference to opportunities described as jobs in australia for foreigners in appropriate context. Applicants should review security and citizenship requirements as noted above.
Direct Answer
Citizen status: Australian citizenship is required for this position. If you are not an Australian citizen, you would not be eligible to apply under current OAIC and APS security requirements. All applicants should prepare for background checks and security clearance at a baseline level.
Additional Information
Diversity & Inclusion
OAIC supports workplace diversity and inclusion and adheres to the APS values and policies on diversity and health and safety.
RecruitAbility
OAIC considers applicants with disability and supports reasonable adjustments in the application process where applicable.
Future Merit Pools
There may be opportunities to be considered for similar roles across OAIC or related APS agencies in future merit pools.
How to Apply
| Contact Officer | Ms Jennifer Perrin, 02 9942 4331 |
|---|---|
| Candidate Kit | Join our team — OAIC (candidate information pack available there) |
| Application Portal | Email applications to [email protected] with subject “OAIC-2026-004 – EL2 Director/Principal Director – FirstName LastName” |