This is a permanent full-time position commencing in July 2026
The Department of Education's Risk and Assurance Directorate is seeking an experienced, strategic and influential audit professional to lead the delivery of high-quality internal audit and assurance services through expert advice, stakeholder engagement and strong governance oversight.
Context
The Department of Education's strategic plan outlines the commitment for every child to enjoy a high quality of education. This is an education underpinned by excellence in teaching, quality leadership and pathways from Kindergarten to Year 12 to meet the needs of the learner in preparing them to take the next step into the world of work or further education.
The Professional Standards and Conduct Division is responsible for the delivery of a range of integrated functions and oversees the Standards and Integrity Directorate, Risk and Assurance Directorate, Legal and Legislative Services Directorate, Parent Liaison Office and the Screening Unit.
The Risk and Assurance Directorate delivers high-level audit and risk management expertise with an emphasis on a quality audit and risk management program that addresses organisational accountability and supports a broad client need across the Department. The Directorate's services include:
* providing assurance to the Director General and the Audit and Risk Committee that the Department's financial and operational controls are operating in an efficient, effective, economical, and ethical manner;
* assisting management in improving the Department's performance;
* providing a risk management governance function with its focus on assisting staff to manage risks effectively;
* ensuring the development, coordination and review of the Department's operational policies and delegations are aligned with the Department's strategic directions.
The Role
As Principal Consultant, Audit and Stakeholder Engagement, you will provide senior leadership and expert advice in the delivery of the Department's internal audit and assurance program. Reporting to the Manager, Audit and Assurance, you will support strong governance, risk management and accountability outcomes across the organisation.
You will lead the planning and delivery of complex audit and assurance activities, oversee quality and methodological standards, and contribute to the continuous improvement of audit frameworks and practices. You will also play a key role in preparing Audit and Risk Committee papers, executive briefings and responses to ministerial requests.
A central focus of the role is stakeholder engagement. You will build and maintain effective relationships with senior leaders, internal business areas and external providers, acting as a trusted advisor on audit and assurance matters. Your ability to exercise sound judgement, manage competing priorities and influence outcomes will be critical to strengthening organisational performance.
Professional Benefits
We are conveniently located in East Perth and our employees enjoy a range of benefits which include:
* 12% employer contributed superannuation.
* Generous leave entitlements including annual, personal, long service and parental leave.
* Professional development opportunities and study leave/assistance.
* Access to salary packaging (in accordance with relevant industrial instruments).
Full Details and Contact
Full details of the role, selection criteria and training requirements are listed in the attached Job Description Form (JDF).
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Tracy Wong, Manager – Audit and Assurance on (08) 9264 4203 or by emailing tracy.wong@education.wa.edu.au.
Equity and Diversity
We are committed to an inclusive and culturally responsive workforce reflecting the diversity in our workplaces and the Western Australian community. We welcome and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, young people, people of diverse sexualities and genders, people with disability, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Explore our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan 2021-2025 for more details.
Eligibility
* be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident or have a valid visa with relevant work rights for the term of the appointment.
* consent to a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check and obtain a current Screening Clearance Number issued by the Department of Education's Screening Unit before you start.
More information about employment eligibility can be found on our website and in the attached Job Description Form (JDF).
Application Instructions
Step 1: Select "Apply for Job"
Complete the online application form, including details of two (2) work related referees, preferably one being your current line manager.
Step 2: Attach your documents
Your application should include:
* A CV of up to three (3) pages outlining your employment history and professional learning summary relevant to this position.
* A statement of up to three (3) addressing the following selection criteria:
* Extensive experience in and understanding of the planning, conduct and reporting of complex audit and assurance reviews aligned to contemporary audit and assurance concepts, techniques, and management practices.
* High level written communication skills and extensive experience in preparing reports, briefing notes and responses to ministerial requests.
* Highly developed communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to undertake high-level consultations, collaborations, and negotiations.
Shortlisted applicants will have their skills and experiences in relation to the remaining selection criteria assessed in the further stages of the recruitment process.
It is recommended you have your attachments ready before selecting "Apply for Job".
Your application must be received before the closing date and time. Late applications will not be accepted.
For technical support submitting your application, you can call the Department of Education's Recruitment team on (08) 9264 4127 for assistance.
Advertised Vacancy Number: DOE1030543
Applicants assessed as suitable may be considered for similar vacancies that arise in our branch within the next 12 months. This includes circumstances where this position becomes subsequently vacant should the successful applicant decline or vacate the advertised position.
The Department applies a four (4) day breach period to this selection process.
Applications close: 4.30pm (AWST) on Tuesday, 17 March 2026
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