Defence Strategy Program Coordinator

We are seeking a highly motivated and results-driven individual to join our Defence Strategy Program team.

Be part of a dynamic and engaging organisational culture.

Collaborate with a team committed to delivering exceptional outcomes in defence and security.

About ASPI

ASPI was established by the Australian Government in 2001 to provide independent advice on Defence and strategic issues. ASPI’s Charter, which guides all our work, explains the government’s aims in establishing ASPI as:

Improving the quality of policy advice received by government by providing contestability.

Nourishing public debate and understanding of Defence and strategic affairs.

Developing professional strategic policy expertise in Australia.

ASPI maintains a unique position as an independent institute, located in the heart of Canberra, jointly serving the national interest alongside government by providing contestability in a constructive and policy-focused manner.

ASPI experts bring extensive experience across whole-of-government, Defence, and academic domains, spanning our key research program areas: Cyber, Technology and Security; National Security; and, Defence Strategy.

About the Role

ASPI’s Defence Strategy Program analyses how Australia defends its national interests in an era of intensifying strategic competition. Our research focuses on three areas: understanding Australia’s security environment and regional partnerships; developing military strategy, deterrence concepts, and future force design; and strengthening the defence industrial base, supply chains, and economic resilience. Together, these efforts provide government, industry, and the public with evidence‑based insights to enhance Australia’s defence.

The successful applicant will be joining a dedicated, collaborative team of professionals and subject matter experts. This fast-paced, varied, and demanding role is suited to an individual who is highly organised, proactive, collaborative, and communicates professionally.

Duty Statement

The successful candidate will need to demonstrate their ability to:

Provide administrative support, program coordination, project management, or research assistance, preferably in a government policy, research, or academic environment.

Engage with diverse stakeholders across government and industry backed up by excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Coordinate logistics for meetings, events, and small conferences in Canberra and across Australia, and remotely, to ensure execution of events communications are achieved.

Work independently, prioritise and balance complex tasks, solve problems, and adapt to change under pressure.

Support the development of policy briefs, reports, and research documents through publication management.

Engage with donors and sponsors and support grant opportunities and delivery.

Support the Director and Deputy Director, including calendar management and coordination of domestic and international travel, and the tracking of deliverables and milestones related to the program’s business plan.

Selection Criteria

Highly developed administrative and organisational skills and meticulous attention to detail.

Effective written and communication skills, including the ability to represent ASPI in a highly professional manner when consulting with people at all levels in government, academia and the private sector.

Demonstrated reliability and the ability to exercise sound judgement and discretion when dealing with pressure and difficult, complex situations.

Demonstrated self-management skills, including the ability to show initiative, problem solve, work independently, manage competing priorities and deadlines, respond well under pressure.

An ability to work collaboratively and as part of a team in a fast-paced and fluid environment.

Computer competency, including but not limited to Microsoft Office and 365 tools and SharePoint.

Willingness to support ASPI through administrative work.

Conditions

The role is based in Barton, and due to the nature of the work, remote work arrangements are not suitable. However, there is flexibility to negotiate core hours with an early start and finish.

Remuneration will be commensurate with the role’s responsibilities and the candidate’s experience.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted to [email protected] by close of business 28 August 2025 and must include a resume and cover letter. In your cover letter, please outline your interest in and qualifications for the position, including prior experience in performing similar duties, and availability to begin the role. Additional application materials and professional references may be requested.

Ensure attachments are in PDF format and titled as follows:

Last Name_First Name_Cover Letter

Last Name_First Name_CV

Early application is encouraged, as we reserve the right to close the vacancy once suitable applications are received.

ASPI promotes a workplace that actively seeks to include, welcome and values unique contributions of all people. The Institute strongly encourages women and people from diverse cultural backgrounds including applicants from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds to apply.