Investigative Steward

ABOUT US

Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) is a statutory body whose role is to oversee all harness racing activity in Victoria.

Our mission is to deliver the most sought-after and accessible harness racing that produces financial sustainability, ensures clubs arethe heart of their communities and provides equal opportunities for all participants to compete. (Further information about HRV can be found at www.hrv.org.au/hrv..

We also operate a racetrack, accommodation, and entertainment complex (hotel accommodation, functions, bars, and gaming) which is situated in Melton.

OUR VALUES

The Investigative Steward is responsible for harness racing investigations in line with Australian Harness Racing Rules (AHRR), HRV rules, and regulations. The role will undertake industry-related and equine welfare investigations, gather evidence, interview stakeholders, and uphold integrity standards, fostering transparency and welfare within the sport.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Conduct Investigations:Lead and contribute to thorough and procedurally sound investigations in accordance with the Australian Harness Racing Rules (AHRR), HRV Local Rules, relevant legislation, policies, and procedures. Investigations may relate to areas such as drug control, licensing, integrity matters, and equine welfare.

• Evidence Gathering and Case Preparation:Conduct formal interviews, gather and document evidence, and prepare transcripts, briefs of evidence, and reports in line with compliance and legal requirements.

• Surveillance and Compliance Monitoring:Monitor the activities of disqualified persons in relation to harness racing and participate in surveillance duties, ensuring all actions are conducted in accordance with established protocols and procedures.

• Support Hearings and Tribunals:Assist in the conduct and documentation of inquiries and hearings, including those held by HRV Stewards, the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT), and the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

• Promote Equine Welfare Standards:Support the development and delivery of training programs and initiatives that promote best practice equine welfare standards across the harness racing industry. This includes working with licensed participants, clubs, and the broader industry to increase awareness and compliance.

• Team Support and Mentorship:Provide assistance and support to colleagues in conducting and documenting investigations, fostering a collaborative and consistent approach to integrity matters.

• Exercise Steward Powers:Undertake all duties and responsibilities as empowered and required under the rules of HRV.

• Stakeholder Engagement:Build and maintain trusted, collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support the effective delivery of integrity and equine welfare outcomes across the industry.

• Other Duties:Undertake other duties as reasonably directed, consistent with the nature of the role and operational priorities.

ABOUT YOU

• Relevant experience in an investigatory role in a law enforcement environment, stewarding or similar industry and/or hold or be studying toward a relevant tertiary qualification

• Proven ability to prepare, plan and conduct effective interviews, write clearly utilising the required organisation, structure, grammar, and terminology, document, and compile evidence other related operational activities

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of investigative techniques and procedures, rules of evidence relating to various legal jurisdictions

• Demonstrated knowledge or the ability to quickly acquire knowledge of equine welfare and the harness racing industry.

• Detail-focused and organised with the proven capacity to take on and deliver on multiple and varied projects with competing deadlines and changing priorities

• Evidence of sound consultation, communication and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated capacity to work collaboratively with a broad range of partners and stakeholders and negotiate in dynamic environments

• Ability to participate collaboratively and constructively within teams, as well as initiative and effective personal judgement when working alone.

• Evidence of solutions focus and innovative thinking, ability to assess options and identify and implement solutions

• Proven computer literacy with practical understanding and application of the Microsoft Office suite of products and case management systems

• Understanding of the racing industry and the regulatory role undertaken by the racing codes and in particular harness racing would be advantageous.

• Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to the embedding of Harness Racing in Victoria values, mission, and vision

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Given the unique nature of this position and the operational requirements of the racing industry the position is expected to travel within HRV Head Office located in Flemington, Melton Entertainment Park, country clubs and regional Victoria outside of normal working hours, including potential for some weekend and weeknight work during major race meetings.

• Undergo a satisfactory police background, reference checks and probity checks in accordance with Company Policy.

• Possess and maintain a current valid Victorian motor vehicle driver's licence.

• Possess and maintain a current valid Victorian Working with Children Check