About the Department
The Department of Industry, Science and Resources is integral to the Australian Government's economic agenda. Our purpose is to help the government build a better future for all Australians through enabling a productive, resilient and sustainable economy, enriched by science and technology.
We do this by:
* growing innovative & competitive businesses, industries and regions
* investing in science and technology
* strengthening the resources sector
The APS and the department offer a clear direction and meaningful work. You will be able to create positive impact in people's lives whilst contributing to improved outcomes for Australia and our people.
About the team
The Department of Industry, Science and Resources is seeking candidates with experience in the space industry, space-adjacent sectors, science and technology, government policy, research and development and commercialisation to join the Australian Space Agency Advisory Board (the Advisory Board). We are looking to fill the role of Chair and member vacancies over the coming 12 months.
The Advisory Board provides independent expert advice to the Secretary of the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (or their delegate) and the Head of the Australian Space Agency on matters relevant to the growth and strategic direction of Australia's civil space sector. This includes providing commercial, scientific, and technological advice on Australia's space policies, programs, and priorities, as well as guidance on integrating space activities with broader scientific, technological and innovation efforts. Advisory Board members advocate for the importance of and opportunities in research and development investment within Australia's space sector.
The Australian Space Agency, established on 1 July 2018, coordinates civil space matters across government and supports the growth and transformation of Australia's space industry. Space plays a crucial role in achieving the Australian Government's objectives, including safeguarding national prosperity, reigniting productivity growth and business investment, transitioning to net zero, and supporting workers in adapting to and adopting new technologies.
About the opportunity
As a member of the Advisory Board, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of Australia's space capabilities, participating in an important role in aligning Australia's space initiatives with Government priorities. As a non-statutory, independent, skills-based board, the Advisory Board serves in an advisory capacity and is not a decision-making body as set out in the Advisory Board's Terms of Reference. The Board operates without governing legislation.
Key duties
Candidates for both Chair and Advisory Board members will bring expertise and leadership in areas such as:
* the space industry, space-adjacent sectors, science and technology, research and development, commercialisation, global or national networks relevant to space activities, government and policy experience, venture capital, national security and resilience, and the intersection between civil and military space;
* executive management and governance within government or private sector advisory bodies, boards or committees;
* a strong understanding of the interface between science and public policy, with significant experience in providing evidence-based advice to senior levels of government.
What you will do
The responsibilities of all board members include:
* providing strategic advice on matters relevant to the sectors in which the Agency operates, including identifying challenges and opportunities for the Australian space sector;
* contributing their knowledge, skills and experience to ensure the Advisory Board is effectively fulfilling its responsibilities and undertaking its functions;
In addition to the responsibilities of all Board members, the responsibilities of the Chair include:
* leading the Advisory Board and representing its advice to the Secretary and the Head of the Australian Space Agency;
* facilitating the effective contribution of all Advisory Board members, ensuring an inclusive and collaborative environment;
* chairing effective Advisory Board meetings and other relevant meetings and functions;
* ensuring the efficient and orderly conduct of the Advisory Board's activities;
* overseeing the delivery of strategic advice in alignment with the Government's priorities.
Eligibility
Experience in the fields of agriculture, manufacturing, engineering, mining and resources, environmental and live sciences and/or space law and regulation, while not mandatory, will be highly regarded as complementary to the existing skills composition of the Advisory Board. Demonstrated expertise and knowledge across multiple sectors and parallel technology applications will also be highly regarded.