Who we are
The Animal Welfare Branch (AWB) continues Australia's leadership in standard setting for exported livestock, and supports the longevity of the trade, by focussing on improving animal welfare outcomes in livestock export supply chains. The branch analyses available science and data to inform the development and review of export conditions. The branch also considers international standards, validates the effectiveness of Australian standards and engages with industry, regulators, researchers and the community to promote evidence and science based regulatory practises, where animal welfare is integral to the regulatory system.

The Job
As a Senior Veterinary Officer in the AWB, you will play a crucial role in the leadership of the section. The position will be responsible for reviewing export livestock welfare standards, in particular the Australian Standards for the Export of Livestock (ASEL). The ASEL is a key document that outlines the minimum animal health and welfare conditions exporters must meet when exporting livestock, and the work of the Senior Veterinary Officer will ensure the standards reflect industry and regulatory developments, and the best available science and evidence. The duties of this role will include:

• prioritising actioning issues related to export livestock health and welfare
• reviewing of identified issues, and standards within the ASEL, including supporting the annual update process and conducting Regulation Impact Statement processes as required
• strategic planning to bring together diverse views and deliver on short and long-term objectives
•  undertaking project management to monitor consultation and implementation activities against key milestones
• building productive relationships with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders, and engaging, liaising and negotiating on complex, contentious and sensitive issues
• supervising and managing a small team, ensuring they maintain or develop the necessary policy and technical expertise
• maintaining an in-depth understanding of relevant legislative, policy and procedural frameworks and ensuring that team members are aware of and operate within these frameworks
• preparing briefs and other written and verbal advice for managers and senior executives
• providing technical advice to other policy and operational areas within the division and department.

What we are looking for
Knowledge and experience
The successful applicant will:

• hold knowledge of legislative and regulatory frameworks and standards that govern the livestock export supply chain
• hold knowledge of animal welfare principles and can drive support and enhancement of animal welfare
• have experience in project management (Agile project management experience is desirable).

Eligibility
Mandatory qualifications
To be considered for this position you must have a veterinary degree from an Australian university or equivalent veterinary qualification recognised in Australia. You must be fully registered, or eligible for full registration, with the relevant Australian state/territory veterinary board and you must maintain this registration whilst employed by the department.

For additional information, please read the Job Description below.

Candidate Information Package docx

Candidate Information Package pdf

Job Description