The Organisation

The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) protects Australia and Australians from threats to their security. In a complex, challenging and changing security environment, our success is built on the imagination and intelligence of our team. ASIO's people are ordinary Australians but they do extraordinary things – they are our most important asset. To be successful in our mission, we need talented people who are highly capable, dedicated, adaptable and resilient.

We seek to reflect the diversity of the community we protect. ASIO is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, where all staff are valued and respected. We welcome applications from all eligible candidates, irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious affiliation, age or disability. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. We are secretive about what we do, not what we value.

The opportunity

ASIO is seeking highly motivated candidates with strong leadership skills and a strategic vision to join our team as Compliance, Governance and Assurance leaders. Governance processes and oversight guide ASIO in achieving its mission and meeting public expectations. Successful candidates will drive compliance culture, and support ASIO in executing its functions in line with legislation, internal policies and procedures, and the Ministers Guidelines.

A merit pool may be created to fill future vacancies which have the same or similar requirements to this position. This merit pool will be valid for up to 18 months.

Role responsibilities

Successful applicants will ensure ASIO meets its compliance, governance and assurance obligations. As a key member of ASIOs leadership team you will:

- Develop and implement compliance, governance and assurance frameworks and initiatives to manage risk and promote a culture of compliance.

- Lead reviews and investigations to ensure compliance with legislative, regulatory and internal policy requirements.

- Proactively engage with governance and oversight bodies on compliance issues and resolutions.

- Monitor and report on compliance and governance, including identifying emerging trends and providing recommendations for improvement.

- Develop and implement systems to provide assurance to the Senior Executive.

- Enhance compliance, governance and assurance outcomes through expert advice, training and targeted uplift activities.

- Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships.

- Manage governance arrangements and forums.

What you will bring

We invite applications from people with the following attributes:

- Demonstrated ability to build capability and lead teams to deliver against organisational goals.

- Highly developed interpersonal skills and the ability to build productive working relationships.

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with prioritisation and organisational skills.

- Demonstrated ability to communicate with influence including to translate complex findings in ways that can be easily understood.

- Excellent analytical and research skills with a demonstrated ability to produce high-quality actionable reports and advice.

- Ability to develop an understanding of the legal framework that governs ASIO functions and the policy framework that underpins this.

What we offer you

ASIO provides a number of benefits to its staff including:

- A competitive salary, including a 7.5 per cent allowance for maintaining a TOP SECRET-Privileged Access security clearance.

- Employer superannuation contributions of 15.4 per cent

- A variety of leave options, in addition to the standard 4 weeks annual leave to ensure your work-life balance.

- Flexible working arrangements. (Please note that due to our unique working environment, work from home options are generally not available).

- Study assistance, including financial support and study leave for tertiary education.

- Access to 7 staff-led diversity and inclusion networks.

- Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Eligibility

To be eligible for the role, you must be:

- An Australian citizen.

- Assessed as suitable to hold and maintain a TOP SECRET-Privileged Access security clearance.

ASIO is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, where all staff are valued and respected. We welcome and value applications from all eligible candidates, irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious affiliation, age or disability. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply.

Reasonable adjustments

ASIO is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment for candidates to participate within all stages of the selection process. These opportunities may include reasonable adjustment to assessment methodologies to enable full participation. Please let us know if you require any additional assistance or reasonable adjustments during any stage of the recruitment process in order to fully participate in the recruitment process or the workplace.

Location

These positions are located in Canberra. Relocation assistance is provided to successful applicants when relocating.

We advertise positions nationally to reach the broadest audience. Please refer to the above location before applying.

How to apply

Click on ‘Apply online' to commence your application. Your application must be complete and include the following:

- A written pitch of up to 500 words using examples to demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role.

- A current CV, no more than 2 pages in length, outlining your employment history, the dates and a brief description of your role, as well as any academic qualifications or relevant training you may have undertaken.

- Details of 2 referees, which must include a current supervisor.

Before applying you should familiarise yourself with the ASIO People Capability Framework and Core Capability Guide, both available on the ASIO website. To increase your chances of success, tailor your application responses to align with the relevant capabilities and levels outlined in these frameworks.

ASIO holds all employment applications in the strictest of confidence. It is essential that you do the same. Please do not discuss your application with others as doing so may adversely affect your potential employment.

Closing date and time

Monday 22 September 11:59pm AEST

No extensions will be granted and late applications will not be accepted.

Employment conditions

Employment is under the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Act 1979. Conditions of service are similar to those applying in the Australian Public Service. We recognise entitlements accrued under the Public Service Act 1999 and provide for continuation of superannuation under the Commonwealth schemes. Salary packaging arrangements are also available.

Australian Workplace Equality Index

In 2024, ASIO achieved the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Gold Standard, recognising ASIO's inclusion work and positive culture. ASIO was one of only 7 public sector employers, and the first Australian intelligence agency, to achieve this status. ASIO has proudly retained AWEI Gold Standard in 2025.

The ASIO Diversity and Inclusion Strategy reflects ASIO's commitment and recognises the benefits of being a diverse and inclusive organisation. For further information about ASIO's Diversity and Inclusion networks, please visit: www.asio.gov.au/about/diversity-and-inclusion.

Enquiries

If you require further information after reading the selection documentation, please contact ASIO Recruitment at [email protected] or phone 02 6263 7888.

More information

For more information about ASIO, please visit: www.asio.gov.au.