This is a 4 month fixed term, full-time position commencing March 2026 with possible extension and/or permanency
The Project and Initiatives branch, part of the Strategic Policy directorate, develops and coordinates Department contributions to whole-of-government policies and initiatives, and provides advice in response to complex, high priority and/or high-risk issues. The branch monitors the development of key educational reforms both nationally and internationally, providing strategic advice and technical expertise to the Minister, Director General and Corporate Executive accordingly.
The Branch works collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to build effective partnerships, represents the Department on committees and project teams. Through this work, the Branch contributes to informed decision-making, effective implementation of priorities, and the delivery of a high-quality, future-focused public education system.
The Role
This role leads the planning, delivery and review of major strategic policy projects that support State and National education priorities. It provides high-level strategic policy advice to the Minister, Corporate Executive and other agencies, and coordinates the development of policies, guidelines and procedures that address complex and system-wide education issues.
The role supports effective public sector governance by ensuring decision-making processes align with the Department’s legal, policy and accountability obligations. It undertakes high-level research, critical analysis, and reviews and evaluations to identify emerging trends and assess the effectiveness of strategic programs, policies and initiatives at local, national and international levels.
The role also coordinates the preparation of Ministerial correspondence, speeches, submissions, reports and briefings, and undertakes professional consultation with internal and external stakeholders, including other government agencies, industry and the private sector, to support informed decision-making and successful policy outcomes.
Professional Benefits
We are conveniently located in East Perth and our employees enjoy a range of benefits which include:
- 12% employer contributed superannuation.
- Flexible working arrangements are genuinely considered to create healthy work life balance including; working from home or remote, flexible working hours and part-time arrangements
- Generous leave entitlements including annual, personal, long service and parental leave
- Professional development opportunities and study leave/assistance
- Access to salary packaging (in accordance with relevant industrial instruments)
- Enjoy easy access to public transport with the Claisebrook train station just a 5-minute walk away or, take advantage of the free Yellow CAT bus service that stops outside our building entrance. Additionally, various CPP parking locations are within walking distance.
Want to know more?
Full details of the role, selection criteria and training requirements are listed in the attached Job Description Form (JDF).
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Mark Prindiville, Manager, Projects and Initiatives on 9264 8162 or emailing Mark.Prindiville@education.wa.edu.au
We are committed to building the leadership capability of our people (Building Leadership Impact).
Equity and Diversity
We are committed to an inclusive and culturally responsive workforce reflecting the diversity in our workplaces and the Western Australian community. We welcome and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, young people, people of diverse sexualities and genders, people with disability, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Explore our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan 2021-2025 for more details.
Eligibility
To work with us, you must:
- be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident or have a valid visa with relevant work rights for the term of the appointment.
- consent to a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check and obtain a current Screening Clearance Number issued by the Department of Education’s Screening Unit before you start.
More information about employment eligibility can be found on our website and in the attached Job Description Form (JDF).
Application Instructions
Apply online in two easy steps:
Step 1: Select Apply for Job
Complete the online application form, including details of two (2) work related referees, preferably one being your current line manager.
Step 2: Attach your documents
Your application should include:
- A CV of up to five (5) pages outlining your employment history and professional learning summary relevant to this position
- A two to three (2-3) page statement addressing the following selection criteria as outlined in the attached JDF:
- Demonstrated substantial experience in the development of policy frameworks and governance processes and extensive knowledge of current State and National education issues, trends, policies and systems.
- Demonstrated highly developed research, analytical, conceptual and problem solving skills including the ability to identify and clarify patterns and trends, process improvements and provide innovative thinking in problem solving.
- Demonstrated highly developed written communication skills including extensive experience in the preparation of Ministerials, briefings, policy and complex reports.
- Demonstrated highly developed oral and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to undertake high level consultations and negotiations.
- Demonstrated highly developed program and project management skills including project methodology, planning, coordination, implementation and evaluation.
It is recommended you have your attachments ready before selecting Apply for Job.
Your application must be received before the closing date and time. Late applications will not be accepted.
For technical support submitting your application, you can call the Department of Education’s Recruitment team on (08) 9264 4127 for assistance.
Advertised Vacancy Number: DOE1024875
Applicants assessed as suitable may be considered for similar vacancies that arise in our branch within the next 12 months. This includes circumstances where this position becomes subsequently vacant should the successful applicant decline or vacate the advertised position.
Applications close: 4.30pm (AWST) on Wednesday, 4 February 2026.
