Speechwriter and Assistant Manager, Executive Level 1, Science Division

Canberra
- Applications close 04 March 2025

**About the Department**:
The Department of Industry, Science and Resources and our broader portfolio are integral to the Australian Government’s economic agenda. Our purpose is to help the government build a better future for all Australians through enabling a productive, resilient and sustainable economy, enriched by science and technology. We do this by:

- Growing innovative & competitive businesses, industries and regions
- Investing in science and technology
- Strengthening the resources sector.

The APS and the department offer a clear direction and meaningful work. You will be able to create positive impact in people’s lives whilst contributing to improved outcomes for Australia and our people.

If you would like to feel a strong connection to your work and you are accountable, committed and open to change, join us in shaping Australia’s future.

Please see the APSC’s APS Employee Value Proposition for more information on the benefits and value of employment within the APS.
**Australia's Chief Scientist**:
Australia’s Chief Scientist is a direct adviser to the Minster for Science, the Prime Minister and other Ministers on matters relating to science, research, technology, and innovation. The Chief Scientist is an advocate for Australian science and speaks to leaders of government, industry and science and research, with a broad remit.

**Office of the Chief Scientist**: The Office of the Chief Scientist (OCS) supports the Chief Scientist in ensuring advice to government is underpinned by the best available science and research. The OCS provides a bridge between the Chief Scientist and stakeholders in government and externally. The OCS has significant advice and communications capacity, and dedicated administration capability. Work produced is wide-ranging and includes analysis and reports, meeting agenda papers and minutes, briefing notes, data-related material, as well as a suite of communication products.

The OCS provides secretariat support for the National Science and Technology Council, the Forum of Australian Chief Scientists, and the Government Scientists Group, and undertakes projects to support science policy development and science engagement.

The OCS is based in Canberra, hosted in the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR) and is part of the broader Science Division of the department.

**What’s in it for you?**:
The Office of the Chief Scientist is seeking a speechwriter to join its communications team. This is a rare opportunity for a talented speechwriter to work closely with Australia’s Chief Scientist and craft speeches at the highest level for national and international audiences.
- Strong experience in speechwriting and/or in journalism.
- Exemplary writing skills and a flair for creativity and originality in communication.
- Excellent judgement and an eye for detail.
- Demonstrated planning and organisational skills, including ability to meet deadlines and deliver to a high standard in an environment of competing priorities.
- The ability to work collaboratively in teams in a fast-paced environment.

The following skills and experience would be highly regarded:

- Experience in the media and/or media management.
- Audio-visual experience, such as with creating videos and podcasts, or with radio or television journalism.
- Demonstrated ability to manage staff and lead teams.

**What you will do**:
In line with the Work Level Standards, the responsibilities of the speechwriter include working with other members of the communications team to:

- Write speeches for Australia’s Chief Scientist.
- Prepare presentations, remarks and video scripts for Australia’s Chief Scientist.
- Prepare scripts for video messages for the Chief Scientist and develop other audio-visual opportunities.
- Explore media opportunities, engage media and manage media enquiries.
- Produce other content, as required. This may include talking points, website and social media content to support the Chief Scientist, and assistance in drafting and reviewing forewords, opeds and reports.

**Eligibility**:
To be eligible for employment in the APS and the department, employees must be Australian citizens unless the Agency Head has agreed otherwise, in writing.

**Notes**:
A merit pool may be established and used to fill future vacancies within 18 months from the date the vacancy was first advertised in the Gazette.

The department does currently offer flexible work opportunities for many roles. This vacancy is Canberra based, although flexible work arrangements may be considered. Please reach out to the contact officer to discuss this further.

**Application information**:
**Contact Information**: