Job description
Agency Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Work unit Plant Biosecurity Branch – Biosecurity and
Animal Welfare
Job title Chemical Coordinator Designation Senior Administrative Officer 1
Job type Full time Duration Ongoing
Salary $128,551 - $143,611 Location Darwin
Position number 23343 RTF Closing 27/01/2026
Contact officer Sally Heaton 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
To advise and lead activities aligned to the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) legislation. Develop policies and
programs that protects the health of the general public; users of agricultural and veterinary (Agvet) chemicals; the environment;
the health and welfare of animals, domestic and export trade in agricultural produce and which promotes the harmonisation of
legislation nationally.
Context statement
The Chemical Coordinator works within the Plant Biosecurity Branch of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. The Branch has a
key role in working with industry to prevent the introduction of plant pests and diseases into the NT and works closely with plant
industries, other jurisdictions and the general public to put sound policies and practices in place, helping to maintain and expand market
access for the Territory's primary producers. Where a pest or disease is detected in the NT, the Branch plays a key role in responding to
and assisting industry and the community to recover from incursions.
Key duties and responsibilities
1. Support and provide high level advice to the Chief Plant Health Officer, Chief Veterinary Officer and other senior executives
to administer the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act 2004, and associated legislationincluding input
into legislative reviews and amendments.
1. Lead and coordinate the development and implementation of high-level policies and strategies for the safe and sustainable
use of Agvet chemicals, regulatory activities (investigating non-compliance) and community engagement activities in the
Northern Territory.
1. Facilitate and negotiate outcomes with relevant government organisations and key stakeholders, including resolution of
complex or sensitive issues relating to the safe and sustainable use of Agvet chemicals in the Northern Territory.
1. Represent the Northern Territory on relevant local and National committees as required.
2. Build partnerships and liaise with Indigenous landowners, pastoralists, communities, organisations and relevant government
bodies towards achieving safe and sustainable use of Agvet chemicals and implementing biosecurity programs.
6. Participate in biosecurity emergency responses.
Selection criteria
Essential
1. Knowledge of agriculture or the application of agricultural or veterinary chemicals for emergency pest/disease response
programs and/or pest management activities.
2. Contemporary knowledge and experience in regulation, including issuing permits and licenses, undertaking audits and
inspections for compliance.
1. Experience in working effectively with industry and other stakeholders, including the general public to develop and deliver
education and regulatory programs.
4. Experience in the planning, management and preparation of briefings, reports and correspondence of complex and multi-
faceted issues.
5. Experience as an effective member of committees and/or working groups to drive agreed agendas, reform programs, and/or
outcomes at a local or national level.
6. Experience in interpreting, administering and/or development of legislation.
7. Demonstrated ability to negotiate effectively to achieve outcomes across multiple stakeholder groups and interests.
8. An NT driver's licence or the ability to obtain.
Desirable
1. An understanding of Agvet legislation, policies and issues across Australia and the NT.