Freedom of Information and Privacy Officer

Permanent Part Time (25 hours per week)

$98,265 - $105,798 pa pro rata (plus 11.5% super and annual pay increases)

Flexible working arrangements available including flexitime and WFH  

Who we are

Surf Coast Shire Council delivers services from Lorne to Winchelsea to Torquay and the communities and townships in between. Locals here experience a sought-after quality of life – exploring our vibrant hinterland towns, attending world-class events, visiting colourful community markets and a range family activities, and more.

When you work with us, you are helping our community and its environment thrive. Our people play a vital role in creating an innovative, safe, respectful, and supportive workplace, living our values, and delivering exceptional services to our thriving community.

At Surf Coast, we work together, we see opportunity, we do what we say, and we make a difference.

Your new career

The Freedom of Information and Privacy Officer sits within our Integrity and Governance department which is a specialist area that is central to the organisation and committed to enhancing governance practices, improving decision-making, and maintaining public trust.

What you will bring to the role

We are currently seeking an experienced Freedom of Information and Privacy Officer to manage Council’s obligations under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (FOI Act) and the privacy functions of Council.

You will be organised, show initiative and will approach tasks with a positive and flexible attitude. You will demonstrate an ability to investigate, analyse and critically assess information and a strength in communication and collaboration that enables you to build strong relationships and networks with internal and external stakeholders whilst managing competing priorities with a positive attitude to continuous improvement.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A knowledge, understanding and demonstrated experience of FOI obligations and privacy matters
• Proficiency with the MS Suite ideally knowledge of the TRIM system
• The ability to manage multiple tasks each with competing deadlines
• Outstanding time management, strong interpersonal skills, and a high degree of professional discretion

Key selection criteria

Mandatory qualifications, experience and requirements

• Tertiary qualifications in governance/compliance/legal or business-related discipline.
• At least three years’ experience in a similar role.
• Demonstrated experience in managing FOI and privacy matters.
• Sound knowledge of FOI and privacy legislation/requirements and the ability to interpret and apply this.
• Demonstrated advanced word processing and computer skills including Microsoft Office suite.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with particular attention to detail and proofreading ability.
• Team player with a ‘can do’ attitude, ability to collaborate and excellent relationship building skills.
• A current Working With Children Check
• You have the permanent right to live and work in Australia
• Police Check results that are suitable for this position (will be arranged by Surf Coast Shire Council).
  A complete international criminal history check is required if the person has worked or lived overseas for any period of time OR a complete national criminal history check is required if the person has only ever worked in Australia.

What you’ll love working with us

Council embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourages applications from skilled people from all walks of life.

We recognise that our employees play a vital role in creating an innovative, safe, respectful and supportive workplace, living our values and delivering exceptional services to our thriving community. Our Council is committed to providing a workplace culture of equity, inclusion and diversity that eliminates all forms of discrimination, harassment and bullying.

There are numerous social activities throughout the year available as well as the benefits of:

• Flexible working arrangements including working from home and flexi time options
• Employee Assistance Program and award-winning staff wellbeing program
• Career development and learning opportunities, we help our people grow
• Purchase of additional annual leave
• Free onsite parking
• Leave loading

For more information

More information on the role accountabilities and the key selection criteria can be found in the position description above.

If you believe you have the knowledge, skills and experience to fulfil this role and would like further information, please contact Heidi Mellar, Coordinator Legal and Property on 5261 0600.

How to apply

Applications are to be in Word or PDF format and should include a:

• cover letter
• statement addressing the selection criteria
• copy of your resume.

Please note that only applications with a statement addressing the selection criteria will be considered for this position.

Simply complete the application process by clicking the "Apply Now" button and we'll be in touch with you shortly regarding your application.