principal people and culture business partner

Department of Treasury and Finance

Location: ADELAIDE

Job status: Long Term Contract

Eligibility: Open to Everyone

We are currently seeking applications for a Principal People and Culture Business Partner, to join the Workforce Operations team at the Department of Treasury and Finance for a period of up to March 2027.

Remuneration: ASO7 ($108,109 - $116,864 per annum) + 12% Super

About the opportunity:

As a Principal People and Culture Business Partner, you'll be a trusted advisor and strategic partner, working closely with leaders to shape workforce strategies, solve complex people challenges, and drive positive change. You will also lead and coach a team of Business Partners.

In this role, you'll take on tasks such as:

• Enhancing current processes and practices, and co-creating smarter, more efficient workforce strategies.
• Coaching Business Partners to develop their skills and experience in delivering an efficient and effective service.
• Contributing to the achievement of department and branch strategic plans.
• Partnering with executives and leaders to navigate complex employment matters, think conflict resolution, underperformance, misconduct, medical incapacity, grievances, and complaints.
• Providing expert guidance on the people side of change, advising on industrial consultation, supporting leaders through transitions, and helping manage impacts and risks.

This position is offered on a full-time basis (75 hours per fortnight). Candidates wishing to be considered for part-time arrangements are encouraged to indicate their preference in their cover letter.

About you:

We're looking for someone who's collaborative, calm under pressure, and passionate about people. You'll bring:

• Experience advising senior leaders on complex workforce matters, including interpreting industrial instruments and policy requirements.
• Coaching and mentoring others to develop their skills and confidence.
• In depth experience managing a wide range of employee matters, including performance issues, medical incapacity, grievances, complaints, organisational change, and disciplinary processes, using fair, consistent, and best practice approaches.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to write clear, thoughtful correspondence and provide evidence-based recommendations.
• A proactive mindset and a track record of implementing workforce strategies in dynamic, evolving environments.

About the Organisation:

At the Department of Treasury and Finance (DTF), you'll join a high-performing, purpose-driven team helping shape a stronger South Australia. As the State Government's trusted advisor on fiscal, economic and policy matters, our work guides decisions that impact our state's future.

Whether you're contributing to the State Budget, shaping policy, or delivering vital financial and corporate services, you'll make a meaningful impact. We offer diverse career pathways, a supportive team culture, and a strong focus on your growth and development. At DTF, your ideas are heard, your contribution is valued, and your work matters.

At the Department of Treasury and Finance we work together to ensure South Australia is a thriving, prosperous state now and into the future.

Our culture is one that welcomes all and we embrace flexibility and diversity. We believe people are our most valuable asset, so we work to support the skills, knowledge and capability of our staff.

What we offer:

We believe the little extras can make a big difference in supporting your success, some of our great incentives include:

• Salary packaging – boost your take-home pay
• Flexible working options – hybrid working options
• Fitness Passport – unlimited access to 75+ gyms and pools
• Career pathways – mentoring and study assistance
• Employee Assistance Program – for you and your family
• Supportive teams and comprehensive training to support your success

Enquiries:

Amelia Plowman, Manager Workforce Operations at or via

Application Instructions:

To be considered, all applications must be submitted online via I Work for SA by clicking Apply and following the instructions.

Applicants are required to submit a Curriculum Vitae and covering letter (no more than two pages) addressing the key selection criteria and demonstrating suitability for the role. You are also required to provide details of 2 referees and complete a pre-employment declaration.

The Department of Treasury and Finance is an Equal Opportunities employer committed to providing an inclusive workplace that embraces diversity and inclusion for all employees. We strongly encourage applications from people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, culturally diverse backgrounds, disability, all genders, and LGBTQI+ community.

Need adjustments? Let us know in your application, we're here to support you.

Applications close: 12/11/2025 11:30 PM