About the Role

The Senior Freedom Information Officer - Topicals reports to the Manager of the FOI Unit. The role will support the Team Leader Topical, with the delivery of timely FOI services to applicants; in conjunction with supporting management and the team to process requests in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (the FOI Act).

The incumbent will build relationships with a range of stakeholders, support and promote the release of documents and making decisions under the FOI Act. They will apply their skills in other related contexts such as reviews and complaints before the Victorian Information Commissioner.

Attributes

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Extensive experience processing requests under the FOI Act specifically working with complex FOI requests and preparation of Ministerial Briefings an advantage;
• to process requests and make FOI decisions in accordance with the legislative requirements of the FOI Act and Professional Standards;
• the ability to operate with an increased level of autonomy and accountability and within a team environment;
• to be able to provide professional and timely advice on a wide range of FOI related matters;
• to be able to review material identified in response to the FOI application to determine relevance and the scope within the FOI Act;
• excellent time management skills and the ability to manage competing priorities effectively;
• the ability to manage stakeholders through effective negotiation and influence;
• strong verbal and written communication skills.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

This role requires a minimum of two years extensive experience in processing complex FOI request's, developing Briefing Notes for Ministers and preparing submissions to the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC).

Having a customer focused attitude within a dynamic environment with competing and changing priorities.

Experience in a government department or agency and working in a team environment is desirable.

Further Information

For more details regarding this position please see attached position description for the capabilities to address in application.

The department values diversity and inclusion in all forms - gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information about our work, working for the Department, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions visit the Department website and our Diversity and Inclusion page.

Applicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person.

Information about the Department of Education's operations and employment conditions can be located at www.education.vic.gov.au.

For further information pertaining to the role, please contact Kelly Snare via (03) Phone or kelly.snare@education.vic.gov.au.

Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and may be subject to other pre-employment checks. Information provided to the Department of Education will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Please let us know via phone or email if you require any adjustments to ensure your full participation in the recruitment process or if you need the ad or any attachments in an accessible format (e.g large print) due to any viewing difficulties or other accessibility requirements.