Workplace Relations Specialist

Role type: Full time, fixed term for 7 months

Department: Human Resources - Workplace Relations & Integrity

Salary: UOM 9 - $143,185 - $148,972 p.a. plus 17% super

• Contribute to effective workplace relations, collaborating with diverse university teams in this strategic advisory role.

• Apply now to leverage your expertise in workplace relations and make a significant impact at the University of Melbourne.

• Investing in you - benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities.

The University of Melbourne

We take pride in our people, who all contribute to our mission to benefit society through the transformative impact of education and research. Discover more via our website.

Your next career opportunity

As a Workplace Relations Specialist, you will provide expert advice and support on all workplace relations matters, working closely with HR practitioners across the University.

You will manage employee relations, interpret policies, and ensure compliance with legislative requirements and the Enterprise Agreement.

This role offers the chance to collaborate with a dedicated team and contribute to resolving complex workplace issues.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing Strategic Advice: Offering guidance on employment matters, policy interpretation, and employment conditions to HR, faculties, and operational divisions.

• Managing Cases: Coordinating documentation and support for case management, prioritising and handling high volumes of work efficiently.

• Drafting and Reviewing Documentation: Preparing for proceedings, assisting with appearances, and independently managing cases as instructed.

• Resolving Grievances: Assessing initial queries, coordinating documentation, and supporting grievance and dispute resolution processes.

You may be a great fit if:

You will bring extensive experience in workplace relations within an enterprise agreement environment, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills, stakeholder management, and a focus on achieving high-quality outcomes.

You may also:

• Have experience working with unions, particularly in large organisations with significant union presence.

• Possess a postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline or equivalent relevant experience.

• Demonstrate excellent written communication skills and the ability to convey information accurately.

• Be adept at managing projects or tasks, ensuring progress towards goals and objectives.

• Be resilient, using lateral thinking and common sense to address complex matters.

For further information please refer to the attached PD.

What we offer you

We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfillment, including:

• Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being

• Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance

• Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance

• Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

For more information check out our benefits page

Your new team - "Human Resources - Workplace Relations & Integrity"

This function is responsible for developing the people strategy to support the University's strategic plan and is accountable for the performance and delivery of the Human Resources function across the University. It provides policy, industrial relations and critical advice and guidance ensuring that the University is compliant and cohesive whilst creating a culture that attracts and retains talent. The function is also responsible for creating and maintaining a safe workplace where people can thrive and do their best work.

Be Yourself

The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation. We believe the diversity of our community enriches us all, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and fair workplace where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Discover more about Diversity and Inclusion at UniMelb.

We're committed to a barrier-free recruitment process and ongoing workplace support, providing reasonable adjustments throughout. We warmly encourage applications from people with disabilities. For assistance, please contact Kim Groizard on or at hr- (subject: 'Recruitment Adjustments'). Contact details for other enquiries are located at the bottom of this page.

Find more information for applicants requiring reasonable adjustments.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants

We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians. Our Indigenous strategy, Murmuk Djerring outlines our investment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students.

Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with our Indigenous Employment & Development team at oied- for further information and support.

Please note: This role requires current valid work rights for Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available.

A Working with Children Check (WWCC) is required for all positions. If successful, we'll guide you through the WWCC application process during onboarding and reimburse the cost.

Join Us and unlock your career potential

If this role is right for you, please apply with the following documents:

• Resume

• Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience

Please note that you are not required to respond to the selection criteria in the Position Description.

Learn more about the application process, including tips and FAQs.

For recruitment queries, email Fahim Farzad hr- Include the Position Number and Job Title in the subject line. Please do not send applications to this email address.

For job-specific queries, refer to the contact details in the Position Description.

Applications close: ​20 October 2025​ 12:01 AM Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) / Melbourne time zone.

Position Description: PD_Workplace Relations Specialist