Senior Researcher

DEPARTMENT OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

JOB DESCRIPTION

Agency Department of the Legislative Work Unit Library and Research Service

Assembly

Job Title Senior Researcher Designation Administrative Officer 7

Job Type Full time Duration Ongoing

Salary $113,938 - $122,574 Location Darwin

Position Number 47105 RTF Closing 10/11/2025

Contact officer Elise Dyer, Clerk Assistant Chamber and Serjeant at Arms on or

Agency Information

Information for Applicants

Applications are limited to a resume and a one-page cover letter.

The NTPS values diversity and aims for a workforce that represents the community. The NTPS encourages people

from all diversity groups to apply. For more information about applying for this position and the merit process, go to

the Office of the Commissioner for Public Employment (OCPE) website.

Aboriginal applicants will be granted priority consideration for this vacancy. For more information on Special

Measures, go to the OCPE website.

Apply Online:

Our Values

Respect, Impartiality, Professionalism, Customer Service, Creativity and Westminster Heritage

Primary Objectives

The Senior Researcher provides high-quality research support to Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs),

enabling:

• improved contributions to parliamentary processes and debates, including in Assembly committees
• effective scrutiny of government activities and policies.

The position also provides strategic direction and leadership to the unit, leads continuous quality improvements, and

manages the unit's workload.

Context Statement

The Department of the Legislative Assembly enables the effective and efficient functioning of the NT Parliament.

The Library and Research Services Unit is part of the Parliamentary Support Division and assists MLAs and their staff

to undertake their parliamentary duties by providing timely, confidential and impartial library, information and research

services.

Key Responsibilities

1. Provide comprehensive, timely and quality research and analysis on subject matter requested by MLAs.

2. Undertake legislative research to provide jurisdictional comparisons of legislation and regulations.

1. Prepare high level reports, discussion papers and briefings notes.
2. Provide strategic direction and leadership to the unit including recruitment and training and lead continuous

quality improvements in the provision of library and research services.

5. Develop and maintain effective relationships with relevant stakeholders at local, Territory and national levels.

6. Ensure corporate records are maintained.

Legislative Assembly of the Northern Territory

Parliament House, State Square (GPO Box 3721, Darwin NT 0801)

Selection Criteria

Essential

1. Highly developed written communication skills, and more than 12 months' demonstrated experience in high level

research, analysis and report writing.

2. Effective oral communication and negotiation skills to engage with MLAs and their staff and stakeholders.

3. Demonstrated ability to work independently, set priorities and meet deadlines under pressure; think and act

strategically; and manage a small team in a demanding environment.

4. Proven collaboration and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to establish and sustain productive

working relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders, including with people from diverse

cultures.

1. Demonstrated administrative and organisational skills, and proficiency in the creation, management and

maintenance of corporate records.

1. Thorough understanding of public policy and the operation of government.
2. Proven ability to respect and adhere to the requirements of confidentiality, impartiality and integrity.

Desirable

1. Tertiary qualifications in a relevant field.

2. Knowledge of parliamentary procedures and legislative processes.

Requirements for Selection and Undertaking the Role

• Prior to being formally offered a position with the Department of the Legislative Assembly, applicants will be

required to submit a pre-employment declaration which includes information regarding their criminal history,

conflict of interest and other continuing employment or volunteer work.

• The successful applicant will be subject to a criminal history check. A criminal history will not exclude an applicant

from this position unless it is a relevant criminal history.

• Access to recreation leave will be restricted during Parliamentary sitting periods.
• The right to disconnect – This position is not expected to be available for regular work-related contact outside of

normal work hours.