Work in a collaborative and supportive team
Your new company
Our client, a state government department, is looking for an experienced Senior Freedom of Information (FOI) Officer to join their team. This role involves managing FOI applications, making determinations, and ensuring compliance with the FOI Act and related legislation.
Your new role
In your new role, your responsibilities will include:
* Handle FOI applications and make determinations based on the FOI Act, case law, and policies.
* Evaluate and refine the scope of FOI applications, and prepare summaries and reports for senior management.
* Provide timely and effective service through complex correspondence and negotiations within legislated timeframes.
* Liaise with internal and external clients, including other State Government agencies, to ensure effective service delivery and informed decision-making.
* Support the Manager, FOI Unit, in managing the team and ensuring efficient processing of FOI applications.
* Mentor and train FOI Unit staff to enhance the unit's efficiency and effectiveness.
* Compile complex determinations and responses to reviews in accordance with the FOI Act and related guidelines.
* Collaborate with senior management on high-level determinations for corporate documents and statistics, including requests from Members of Parliament and media.
* Ensure compliance with information release and confidentiality requirements as per the FOI Act and related guidelines.
* Identify and address trends, risks, and issues impacting FOI application processing, implementing corrective actions and risk-mitigation measures.
* Review, develop, and maintain departmental FOI policy in collaboration with the Manager, FOI Unit, ensuring legislative compliance and continuous improvement.
What you'll need to succeed
To be successful in the role, you will have:
* Proven ability to analyse information, exercise sound political judgment, and develop solutions in FOI administration.
* Effective communication skills with internal and external clients, both verbally and in writing.
* Commitment to customer service and achieving service delivery standards.
* Ability to work under pressure, prioritise tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality.
* Understanding of FOI requests, legislation, and related regulations.
* Applied knowledge of the FOI Act, Information Privacy Principles, and State Records Act.
* Experience in developing and improving administrative systems, policies, and procedures.
* Knowledge of Equity and Diversity principles.
What you'll get in return
In return, you will work in a collaborative and supportive team that values your contributions and encourages continuous improvement. You will receive a competitive hourly rate.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' or forward an up-to-date copy of your CV to yvonne.scott@hays.com.au or call Yvonne Scott now on 08 7221 4146.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.