SES Band 3, Deputy Secretary (Various Groups)

• Ongoing, Non-ongoing, Full-time
• Total Remuneration Package (TRP)
• Canberra-based Role

About the Department

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) advances Australia’s international agenda by working with foreign governments and international organisations to support Australia’s strategic, security, economic, trade and development interests. In Australia and across its overseas network, DFAT builds relationships and networks, provides strategic insights, delivers international development and humanitarian assistance, leads crisis response and provides consular and passport services.

The Opportunities

As a Deputy Secretary, you will provide strategic leadership, management and policy advice to deliver the Australian Government’s foreign, trade and investment and development policy objectives and shape the regional and international environment to advance Australia’s interests.

Our vacancies have oversight of a number of divisions and posts with bilateral and regional responsibilities across various geographical areas, including the Pacific; development programs; policy; and trade and economic issues. The intention would be to draw on the merit list should further Band 3 vacancies become available.

As a member of the DFAT Senior Executive, you will have a key role in the department’s corporate governance, and in ensuring the Department is an accountable, ethical and resilient organisation. You will help set the Department’s strategic direction, priorities and resource allocation. As a senior leader and manager, your performance will be judged by results and how you uphold APS and departmental values, including exemplary standards of integrity and professionalism.

Our Ideal Candidate

In an increasingly complex and volatile international environment, you will bring exceptional judgement, strategic leadership and policy capability. You will provide clear direction, manage risk and uncertainty, and strengthen Australia’s bilateral, regional and multilateral relationships. A clear understanding of Australia’s national interests, sound analytical capability and the ability to anticipate and respond to emerging challenges will be essential. A strong understanding of corporate issues including ASL management, budget processes and staff welfare is also required.

You will represent and advocate Australia’s strategic, security, economic, trade and development interests in domestic and international forums. You will be a highly effective communicator and negotiator, with the ability to build trusted networks with influential people and organisations on issues of importance to Australia. Positions may involve a demanding international travel schedule.

You will work collaboratively and productively across government, including with Ministers’ offices, the Secretary, departmental colleagues, the broader public service, the private sector and non-government organisations. You will build connections between Australia’s international engagement and domestic priorities and bring the leadership, credibility and judgement required to operate effectively across senior government, public sector and stakeholder environments.

How to Apply

Submit your application via the department’s website at DFAT Careers website before the closing date.

Applications close at 11:30pm AEDT on Wednesday, 7 October 2026

Your application will need to provide:

• your personal details
• a written pitch of no more than 500 words OFFICIAL OFFICIAL  
• contact details of two professional referees, including your current supervisor.

Your application will be assessed on your ability to demonstrate the required skills, knowledge, experience and qualifications to proficiently perform the role. Relevant examples and accomplishments will strengthen your application. Your pitch is your opportunity to tell us why you are the right candidate for the role.