The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) lead the sustainable development of Western Australia’s regions and agriculture, aquaculture, food and fisheries sectors. In everything we do, we take an approach to protect, grow and innovate WA’s economy, community and environment. 

We value diversity and understand diverse workplaces are more effective and innovative so we encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, women, youth, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. 

It is also important to be aware that DPIRD is an emergency management department and so on occasion, all employees may be required to work or travel during, or outside of, normal business hours to assist with incidents and emergencies. 

To learn more about our department, our team and the work we do, please visit our website. 

About the opportunity  

We currently have one (1) Full-time Fixed term opportunity available until 21 June 2028 with the possibility of extension and /or permanency.

Are you interested in international trade and market access?

We are looking for someone to join our dynamic team and be part of driving international competitiveness to secure, grow and diversify markets for WA’s primary industries.

As the successful candidate you will be a proactive and adaptable team player who can effectively balance multiple tasks and responsibilities while maintaining excellent written and verbal communication skills.

This role works on policy development, conducting research and analysis to inform evidence-based decision making, and contribute to the implementation of strategic initiatives that support export growth.

You will be responsible for identifying and reporting on challenges facing exporting agribusinesses and determining opportunities to improve trade and market access working closely with government and industry stakeholders at state and federal level to progress priorities.

The position is currently available for immediate filling and includes the possibility of extension or permanency in the future. This process may also be used to fill other same or similar fixed term or permanent vacancies that arise in DPIRD (within the locations listed in this advert) over the next 12 months. 

About the team and benefits

We are genuinely committed to developing and supporting our workforce to be their best by creating a positive work environment, supporting work/life balance and encouraging our employees to learn on the job and build their skills.

Some of the benefits of this job and working at DPIRD include:

• Opportunity to work for a department that is renowned as a world leader in a range of fields, from research and development to international trade.
• Being part of a fun, supportive and inclusive team.
• Modern, easily accessible and centrally located office premises and facilities, with proximity to a range of public transport options.

Assessment criteria and eligibility

We are looking for individuals with:    

• Possession of Bachelor degree in Business, Commerce, Economics, Project Management, or Agribusiness, or an approved equivalent.
• Experience in policy development for primary industries, preferably in trade and market access.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate openly and effectively, along with developed research, analysis and writing skills and the ability to manage changing and competing priorities in a highly dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Experience coordinating complex Ministerial or other high-level stakeholder engagements, trade missions or strategic projects, including managing competing priorities, logistics and stakeholder relationships.
• Demonstrated ability in working across state and Commonwealth government agencies and industry stakeholders to support trade and market access priorities through effective engagement and coordination.
• Experience in International Relations, Foreign Policy is highly regarded.

All Work-Related Requirements will be assessed at some stage during the selection process.

To be eligible for appointment we will also require you to submit copies of your Bachelor degree in Business, Commerce, Economics, Project Management or Agribusiness, or an approved equivalent, right to work in Australia (citizenship, residency, relevant visa) and/ or statutory or regulatory requirements related to the position as part of your application to demonstrate you meet the position requirements.  

For further information and requirements for this position, please see the attached Job Description Form (JDF). 

How to apply 

If you are interested in this opportunity, make sure you have read through all the attached information, click the ‘Apply’ button and upload the following:  

• A comprehensive CV that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements including details of your referees.  
• A cover letter of no more than two (2) pages demonstrating how your skills, knowledge, experience and attributes relate to this opportunity and the values of DPIRD.
• Copies of any relevant documents to demonstrate you are eligible for appointment.

The successful candidate will also be required to provide a current National Police Certificate (police clearance) before commencing employment. If not currently held, this must be acquired prior to appointment, which will be at your expense.

Please be aware that late applications will not be accepted. It is your responsibility to ensure it has been submitted prior to the closing date and time. If you experience technical difficulties applying online, please contact the RAMS Helpdesk on 1300 733 056.

Further information and support

To find out more about the opportunity, please contact Melanie Payne, Principal Trade Consultant on 0419194956 during office hours or send an email to melanie.payne@dpird.wa.gov.au.  

We are planning to conduct interviews for shortlisted candidates at Nash Street in Perth. If required, we may also use other assessment methods to gather evidence in relation to the suitability requirements of the position and supplement the field of applications by conducting a candidate search.

If you have any support or access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in this assessment process, or other questions about the recruitment process, please contact our Talent team via recruitment@dpird.wa.gov.au or (08) 6552 1943.

Privacy and your personal information 

DPIRD handles and releases information in accordance with relevant privacy and information access laws including the Freedom of Information Act 1992 (FOI) and the Privacy and Responsible Information Sharing Act 2024  (WA) (PRIS). Further information is available via our Privacy Statement.