Government Relations Officer

Australian Institute of Marine Science
Australian Institute of Marine Science

Canberra, Australia · Perth, WA, Australia

AUD 100,818-114,730 / year

Posted on Sep 24, 2026

About this exciting opportunity

As AIMS’ Government Relations Officer you will play a pivotal role in strengthening the organisation’s engagement with the Australian Government. Reporting to senior leadership, you will provide strategic advice and support to the Chief Executive Officer and AIMS Leadership Team on government processes, policy developments, funding opportunities, and stakeholder engagement.

This dynamic role involves managing relationships with government departments and agencies, coordinating AIMS responses to government requests and reviews, supporting parliamentary and senate estimate processes, preparing high-level briefing materials, and identifying emerging policy and funding opportunities. You will also lead government-facing engagement projects, including events and cross-government initiatives, while contributing to AIMS corporate reporting and strategic objectives.

About you

We are seeking a highly organised and politically astute professional with exceptional communication, analytical, and stakeholder engagement skills who is committed to upholding AIMS' values and supporting its vision for Australia's marine science future. Our ideal candidate will be politically aware, strategically minded, and able to confidently navigate complex government environments while maintaining strong professional relationships with ministers, advisors, government departments, and key stakeholders.

With exceptional written and verbal communication skills, you will demonstrate the ability to prepare high-quality briefs, reports, and correspondence for senior executives and external audiences. You will be a natural collaborator with a commitment to achieving outcomes that support AIMS' strategic objectives. Most importantly, you are passionate about making an impact, embody AIMS' values, and thrive in a role where you can influence, advise, and contribute to the organisation's engagement with government and the broader public sector.

Apply now and join a world leading organisation with attractive working conditions. In line with our Enterprise Agreement, the successful candidate will be rewarded with:

  • AIMS AOF Level 4 salary ($100,818 to $114,730 per annum) plus 15.4% superannuation
  • Full-time, Temporary (Labour hire) opportunity to 26 February 2027
  • Located in Perth (WA) or Canberra (ACT)
  • 9-day fortnight, enjoy a long weekend each fortnight
  • Flexible Work Arrangements considered including hybrid working (where suitable)
  • Generous and supportive leave entitlements
  • Access to Commuter car fleet arrangements to travel to site (in Townsville only)
  • Employee Assistance Program

Discover more about Working at AIMS | AIMS.

Please note:

Non-Australian Citizens must hold an appropriate Visa with working entitlements that allows paid employment with AIMS from commencement and for the full term of the appointment, depending on the relevant Department of Home Affairs current policies.

Next step:

Further information about this exciting and challenging opportunity is outlined in the Candidate Information Pack which is available to download below. If, after reviewing the position description, which is included in the Candidate Information Pack, you believe that your qualifications, experience and professional capabilities will enable you to successfully the deliver the position responsibilities, we would be very interested in hearing from you.

Further information on the application process and tips is available in our website Recruitment process | AIMS.

Submitting your application:

Please ensure that you have your completed documents (resume and one-page cover letter) ready to attach to your online application form via our e-recruitment system which can be accessed via the "apply now" button below.

Position enquiries can be directed to Tara McLaren, Director External Relations at t.mclaren@aims.gov.au. Applications must be made through our website per above.

Applications close: WEDNESDAY, 30 SEPTEMBER 2026 (11.45PM, AEST).



Attachments:
- 22104 Candidate Information Pack.pdf