Assistant Secretary, National Skills System

Overview

The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations is focused on helping people build secure, fairly paid and future-ready careers. Its work supports safe workplaces, stronger employment outcomes, and the development of skills needed for a changing economy. The department’s role spans policy, program delivery and direct support services, all aimed at improving outcomes for workers, job seekers, employers and the wider economy.

Role summary

As Assistant Secretary of the National Skills System Branch, you will guide Jobs and Skills Australia’s evidence-based analysis and advice on whether Australia’s skills system is meeting current, emerging and future workforce needs. This senior role is responsible for leading the skills stream of the agreed JSA Workplan and ensuring the branch’s work is grounded in strong research, data and stakeholder engagement.

The position will focus on the contribution of skills to productivity and inclusive participation. You will monitor and assess the effectiveness of the national skills system, with particular attention to how the VET system is meeting labour market demand and supporting student outcomes. The work draws heavily on linked datasets, including the VET National Data Asset and related tertiary and pathway data, to connect education and training with employment outcomes.

The branch’s work also includes projects that support a more connected tertiary education system, the ongoing development of the National Skills Taxonomy, and research into adult foundation skills, including participation in the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC), with outcomes due in 2030.

You will report to the Executive Director and work closely with the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners. Collaboration will also extend across DEWR, the Australian Tertiary Education Commission, other Commonwealth agencies, State and Territory Governments, industry groups and research partners such as NCVER.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the branch’s analysis, research and advice on the performance of Australia’s skills system.
• Oversee delivery of the skills stream within the JSA Workplan.
• Assess how effectively the national VET system is meeting skills demand and improving student outcomes.
• Use linked data sources to generate clear, decision-ready insight for government and the broader skills sector.
• Contribute to work on tertiary education integration, skills taxonomy development and adult foundation skills research.
• Build strong relationships across DEWR, other government bodies, industry and research stakeholders.
• Provide strategic leadership and direction to teams delivering complex, high-volume work.

Skills and capabilities

• Strong understanding of the Australian VET system, including funding, regulation, the National Skills Agreement, qualifications reform, apprenticeships and the interface between VET and higher education.
• Ability to convert system knowledge into practical advice that improves workforce and skills outcomes.
• Sound strategic judgement in using analysis, research and linked data to influence decisions.
• Broad understanding of the Australian skills and tertiary education landscape and the labour market.
• Capability to apply multiple analytical approaches to complex, high-risk and fast-moving issues.
• Highly developed communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills, including political awareness.
• Ability to build a workplace culture that develops people, supports capability and empowers teams.
• Strong organisation, prioritisation and time management skills.

Capabilities and qualities

• High standards of integrity and professional conduct.
• Strong legal/technical judgement.
• Effective leadership and people management that promotes a positive culture.
• Well-developed risk management capability.
• Ability to build trusted relationships and give persuasive advice to senior stakeholders.
• Commitment to excellence, innovation and continuous learning.
• Good understanding of core APS frameworks.
• Ability to build and leverage relationships across the APS.

Eligibility

This role requires a valid Negative Vetting 1 security clearance.

Application requirements

Applicants must submit a summary of up to two pages and no more than 1,000 words, outlining relevant skills, knowledge and experience, and explaining why they should be considered for the role. Responses should reflect the position overview and any role-specific requirements, with examples where possible. Candidates must also upload a CV and provide contact details for two referees through the department’s recruitment system.

Additional information

This is an SES Band 1 identified position. The listed location options are Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Hobart and Darwin.

Please refer to the Job Information Pack for further details about the position.