About the role

The Access and Public Engagement Branch is the public face of National Archives of Australia, delivering reference, description and research services, examination for the release of records exhibition, education and public programs, publishing (including digital publishing), marketing, partnerships and events on site at national and state offices and online. All programs and activities support the key National Archives role of providing an accessible, visible and interpreted national archival collection.

The Access Examination section is critical to providing public access to records of government. It facilitates access to the national archival collection by reviewing records for any continuing sensitivities prior to their public release under the Archives Act 1983, including the identification of material that is exempt from public access. The section develops policies and procedures for the assessment of continuing sensitivities in records and manages the process across National Archives.. The section manages internal reconsiderations and appeals to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal for decisions made under the Archives Act 1983, along with arrangements with Australian Government agencies to ensure best-practice and sound referral arrangements. The section also supports the work of other business areas within National Archives by releasing records for research, exhibitions, promotion and other visitor engagement activities.  

Under broad direction the main duties of the role are to:

• Lead and manage the public release of Australian government archival records in accordance with the Archives Act 1983
• Manage the risks associated with the public release of classified and potentially sensitive Australian Government records, including management of National Archives’ response to appeals to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, Federal and High Courts on decisions made under the Archives Act 1983
• Provide strategic direction and advice to the Executive and develop and implement policy and guidelines which support the whole-of-government processes associated with the public release of Australian Government records, including legislative reform.
• Build capability across all National Archives offices to ensure consistent, reliable access decisions are made in line with the Act.
• Maintain accountability and responsibility for the management and allocation of resources and delegations within the broader financial and regulatory frameworks of National Archives.
• Establish and maintain close working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including Australian Government departments and agencies involved in the public release of archival records.
• Lead a large team with a view to continually approve processes and workflows in order to meet legislated timeframes.
• Promote and apply the APS and National Archives values and contemporary people management principles and practices in equity and diversity, WHS and participative management practices.
• Promote and apply the National Archives’ Vision, Mission and Commitments as expressed in Strategy 2025–2030: Evolving National Archives and Our Values.

Relevant tertiary qualifications, membership or eligibility for membership of relevant professional associations are essential. Previous experience in an area which deals with sensitive cultural, national security, international relations and/or defence sensitivities would be an advantage.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the role you must be an Australian citizen. If you are selected, you will be required to successfully undergo a pre-employment check and be able to obtain and maintain a Positive Vetting (PV) security clearance.

How to apply

You need to apply through our e-recruitment system.

Your application will need to include:

• the names and contact details of at least two referees, one of whom should be a current supervisor.
• your current resume.
• statement (750 words maximum), describing how your skills, knowledge, and experience/qualifications would enable you to perform the duties of the role taking into account the “Performance Expectations” at the relevant classification and the National Archives’ Vision, Mission and Commitments as expressed in the Strategy 2025–2030: Evolving National Archives and Our Values.