Senior Risk Assessor in Sydney

As a Senior Risk Assessor within Defence Export Controls, you are responsible for rigorously assessing risks associated with applications to export military and dual-use goods and technologies, and applications for Foreign Work Authorisations. You will play an important role in upholding Australia’s international obligations to prevent Australian exports contributing to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction or military programs counter to Australia’s interests. You will independently analyse information from multiple sources to ensure decisions do not prejudice Australia’s security, defence, or international relations, and are consistent with relevant legislation and policy.

In this role, you will engage with Defence, industry, and other external stakeholders to support assessments, maintain records in accordance with legislative and policy requirements, and contribute to improvements in policies and procedures to support quality and timeliness. You will be part of a supportive and high-performing team, where your contributions will have a direct, real-world impact.

This role is eligible for an additional remuneration benefit known in Defence as a Building Defence Capability Payment (BDCP). This enables Defence to provide a premium, in addition to the base salary otherwise payable under the Defence Enterprise Collective Agreement (DECA), for positions in occupational disciplines/classifications that are critical to Defence capability.

About our Team: Defence Export Controls (DEC) is the Commonwealth regulator of military and dual-use exports and Foreign Work Authorisations. DEC supports government, industry, higher education, research sectors and individuals to meet their obligations under Australia’s export controls and Safeguarding Australia’s Military Secrets legislative frameworks. Through its operations, DEC plays a fundamental role in ensuring Australia upholds its international obligations, including participation in multilateral export control regimes. The Assessments section within DEC safeguards Australia’s sensitive military knowledge, national security interests and international relations by delivering robust, evidence-based technical and risk assessments that support Australia’s international commitments and counter-proliferation objectives. This work may also include representing Australia in international meetings.

Our Ideal Candidate:

• Works independently with a high level of accountability and exercises sound judgement in applying legislation, policy, practices and procedures.
• Demonstrates strong analytical and assessment skills, can navigate complex and sensitive issues, and remain effective in a fast-paced environment.
• Communicates clearly and writes effectively, producing well-reasoned and accurate assessment outputs.
• Builds productive relationships with key stakeholders and collaborates effectively across teams, including those that are geographically dispersed.
• Brings critical thinking, a strong understanding of national security considerations, and a flexible, positive outlook with a focus on both people and outcomes.

Security Clearance: Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at “Negative Vetting Level 1”.

Getting to know the Department of Defence: The Department of Defence employs around 18,000 Australian Public Service (APS) employees. Defence APS employees work in a wide variety of critical roles, Australia wide, enabling our three services Navy, Army and Air Force, to do their job. Defence has a range of Australian Public Service (APS) career opportunities that offer interesting, challenging, and unique work. Our workforce includes administrative support, accountants, intelligence analysts, engineers, policy advisors, graphic designers, lawyers, social workers, IT specialists and contract managers to name a few. We offer a rewarding career that includes professional development, work-life balance, recognition, a flexible and supportive work environment and a diverse workforce.