The Role
We are seeking dynamic, confident and capable leaders to join our team as the Assistant Base Manager at Rockhampton Staging and Support Base and Lavarack Barracks.
With positions available in Rockhampton and Townsville, these roles are an exciting opportunity to support base operations, lead strategic initiatives, drive innovation, and help shape the future of Defence by supporting and enabling critical Defence operations, exercises and capability.
This is not your average desk job. The tempo is high, the challenges are real, and the impact is immediate. As the Assistant Base Manager, you will play a vital role in the strategic and operational management of several estates by overseeing the day-to-day functions including, security, emergency management, facilities, and WH&S compliance. The Assistant Base Manager is also required to develop and manage a small high-performing team to deliver exceptional service and operational outcomes.
About our Team
Northern and Central Zone (NCZ) is a branch of Service Delivery Division (SDD) within the Security and Estate Group (SEG).SDD is at the forefront of enhancing Defence capabilities and personnel readiness through innovative service delivery and support mechanisms. Our work directly contributes to the operational excellence and welfare of Australia's Defence Force, offering unparalleled opportunities to make a meaningful impact.
NCZ manages the most significant and largest training areas and ranges in Australia, enabling substantial multinational and bilateral exercises such as Pitch Black and Talisman Sabre. We provide essential, on-the-ground services and support to Defence personnel at locations throughout Queensland.
Assistant Base Managers provide leadership and coordination across Defence bases. They are the eyes and ears on the ground, ensuring the smooth running of base operations, managing critical incidents, supporting Defence activities and exercises, and working closely with a broad range of stakeholders, including Defence personnel, service providers, contractors, and local communities.
Assistant Base Managers are problem solvers, trusted advisors, and personnel managers who help ensure Defence sites are safe, secure, and ready to respond to any challenge, from supporting Defence exercises and operations to managing the impacts of severe weather or critical incidents and are a critical role within the team.
Our Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a proactive and adaptable leader who thrives in a dynamic operational environment. Someone who is calm, confident, solutions-oriented and able to make sound decisions when under pressure.
Our ideal candidate will have the ability to work collaboratively building strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, and have a strong customer service mindset.
We are looking for someone who:
* Demonstrates strong leadership capability with the ability to guide teams, influence stakeholders, and drive positive outcomes.
* Effectively manages team performance and professional development.
* Displays excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to build trusted relationships with Defence personnel, contractors, service providers, and community partners.
* Demonstrates the ability to think critically and strategically, identifying issues and drive continuous improvement activities.
* Confidently manages competing priorities while maintaining a focus on safety, security, and operational continuity.
* Understands the importance of customer service and delivering high-quality support to Defence.
* Confident managing risk and compliance in a large and complex estate environment.
* Is committed to shaping a secure and sustainable future for Defence.
In turn, we will provide you with the following:
* Annual leave of 20 days per year.
* Christmas stand down (a paid break during the Christmas and New Year period in addition to standard leave).
* Competitive salary and performance-related salary progression for eligible employees.
* 15.4% superannuation.
* Standard hours of 37.5 hours per week.
* Negotiated flexible work arrangements.
* Ongoing training and development.
* Personal/Carer's leave of 15 days per year.
* An additional day of leave per calendar year, on top of regular leave entitlements.
* A range of Parental and Reservist leave.
* Several health, well-being, diversity and inclusion networks.
* Defence Employee Assistance Program provided by Converge International.
We are looking for the right people to join our teams now. Positions are available in Rockhampton and Townsville and a merit list will be established for future vacancies in other North Queensland locations.
Application Closing Date: Sunday 8 March 2026
For further information please review the job information pack, reference SEG/00931/26 on https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/?jati=83616FEE-2127-33B2-4D41-ECAA4AF12760