Job description
Agency Department of Children and Families Work unit Strategy and Coordination
Job title Principal Policy Officer Designation Senior Administrative Officer 1
Job type Full time Duration Fixed to 03/01/2027
Salary $128,551 - $143,611 Location Darwin
Position number 22728 RTF Closing 18/02/2026
Contact officer Michelle McColm on or
About the agency
Apply online
APPLICATIONS MUST INCLUDE A ONE-PAGE SUMMARY ABOUT YOU, A DETAILED RESUME AND COPIES OF YOUR TERTIARY
QUALIFICATIONS.
Information for applicants – inclusion and diversity and Special Measures recruitment plans
The NTPS values diversity. The NTPS encourages people from all diversity groups to apply for vacancies and accommodates people with
disability by making reasonable workplace adjustments. If you require an adjustment for the recruitment process or job, please discuss
this with the contact officer. For more information about applying for this position and the merit process, go to the OCPE website.
Aboriginal applicants will be granted priority consideration for this vacancy. For more information on Special Measures plans, go to the
OCPE website.
Primary objective
Provide overarching strategic policy advice and coordination in the design and delivery of whole of system approaches to outcomes and
connect key parties to unify effort towards agency priorities and objectives. Facilitate reform strategies and align reform pieces across
portfolios, including commissioning functions and management and delivery of projects in partnership with NT and Australian
Government agencies and the community sector.
Key duties and responsibilities
1. Provide high level advice, support and coordination on agency initiatives, strategic projects and service models, programs and
contemporary policy approaches to support communities, including vulnerable children, young people, parents and families.
2. Prepare comprehensive written briefings, reports, discussion papers, submissions, ministerial correspondence and presentations.
3. Undertake strategic analysis of complex issues affecting the NT, specifically in relation to children and families' services and the
responsibilities of the Department.
4. Develop, implement and lead project management covering scope management, stakeholder engagement, change management,
program and project governance, reporting, timeframes, resources, risk and issues and communications
5. Establish and maintain strong collaborative relationships with other NT agencies, Commonwealth Government and community sector
representatives to ensure a partnership-based approach to achieving goals in required timeframes.
6. Lead and manage a team to achieve successful outcomes.
Selection criteria
Essential
1. Strong research, analytical and problem-solving skills in the context of policy and project development, implementation and evaluation
including the ability to synthesise complex and connected information.
2. Demonstrated capacity to engage with the NT's commitments under national strategies and provide timely support for Ministerial and
Executive representation of Territory interests and perspectives.
3. Proven experience in managing projects including knowledge of project management frameworks, the ability to meet deadlines, and
to work as part of a team.
4. High level interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills including the ability to develop and maintain effective professional
relationships and partnerships across all levels of government, service providers and the community sector.
5. Highly developed strategic, conceptual, analytical and research skills to evaluate issues, define options and prepare recommendations
for scrutiny at the Executive, Ministerial and Government level.
6. Well-developed written and communication skills, including high-level development of official government documents such as
strategies, plans, frameworks, cabinet submissions, ministerial briefings and presentations.
7. Proven skills in contemporary management including staff and change management.
Desirable
1. Tertiary qualification in human services, social sciences, public policy, administration or a related field.
Further information
The recommended applicant will be required to hold a current Working with Children Clearance Notice and undergo a criminal history
check (a criminal history will not exclude an applicant from this position unless it is a relevant criminal history.