Investigator in Melbourne

Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs

At the Department of Justice and Community Safety, we are looking for people who want to make a difference. We embrace diversity and strive to have a workforce that reflects the community we serve. If you think you can do the job and would be a good fit for our department, we’d love to hear from you.

The department is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and recognises that children’s rights need to be respected, their views welcomed and valued, and their concerns taken seriously and acted upon.

Great opportunity to join Tobacco Licensing Victoria on a fixed term basis in Melbourne.

• Plan and conduct investigations into breaches of the Tobacco Act 1987, which may include inspections and search warrants of premises across Victoria.
• Perform enforcement functions which may include compiling briefs of evidence and other documentation to support enforcement action in relation to breaches of the Act.
• The role of the Investigator is primarily responsible for leading and conducting regulatory investigations for the purpose of disciplinary action and other enforcement outcomes.
• This role will involve conducting inspections, observations at or near relevant premises and conducting risk management discussions.
• This role will be responsible for recommending appropriate enforcement actions, including commencing a criminal investigation or other enforcement action in accordance with TLV policies and procedures.
• The role requires the flexibility to work in the field and perform duties outside of normal business hours including overnight travel to regional Victoria when operationally required.

The Opportunity:

• Fixed Term to June 30 2028
• VPS Grade 4 role: $100,894- $114,476 per year plus superannuation.

Work as part of a team, safely and in accordance with legislation, policy and procedures, to conduct inspections and search warrants of premises to monitor compliance with Tobacco Act 1987.

• Document and record all compliance activity in accordance with legislation, policy and procedures in an accurate and timely manner.
• Conduct a range of inquiries, investigations and compliance monitoring activities pursuant to the legislation including the preparation of reports and briefs of evidence.
• Use high level investigative expertise to make informed, proportionate and evidenced-based compliance and enforcement decisions and recommendations.
• Prepare accurate and thorough recommendations, reports, briefing papers and correspondence on all investigations, inspections and compliance enforcement activity.
• Prepare statements, affidavits, briefs of evidence and other court documents as directed.
• Conduct records of interview in accordance with legislation, policy and procedures.
• Prepare and issue sanctions in relation to breaches of the Act.
• Contribute to recommending improvement initiatives and change relating to investigations.
• Provide guidance, coaching, and administrative support to embed improved practices and compliance.
• Conduct investigations and audits, identifying root causes and recommending effective risk controls to prevent recurrence.
• Assess, identify and appropriately manage or elevate operational and reputational issues and risks to the line Manager.
• Completion of other required tasks as directed by the Team Leader, Compliance and Enforcement.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience conducting complex investigations and preparing briefs of evidence.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in conducting compliance and enforcement operations in a regulatory or law enforcement environment.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the use of systems and processes used in compliance and enforcement operations.

What's in it for you?

• Job stability- position as a member of the Victorian Public Service (VPS).
• A fair salary-enjoy great work conditions and salary sacrificing options.
• Transparent performance framework-approach your work with confidence in how you're tracking.
• Generous leave entitlements-provisions for many forms of leave; including personal, parental, carers, study, cultural, compassionate, and sick leave.
• Employee Assistance Program support- you are encouraged to use this short-term, confidential counselling service.

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants are welcome to utilise support from the Aboriginal Recruitment Team throughout the recruitment process.

We want to make sure all Victorians feel represented by the department's work. We’re proud of our individual differences and hope you will share your story too.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo pre-employment checks which may include national police checks and misconduct screening.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: CHILD SAFE STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT: The Department of Justice and Community Safety is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.

Applications close Sunday 18 October 2026 at 11.59pm.