Intelligence Oversight Officer

Who we are

The Office of the Inspector‑General of Intelligence and Security (IGIS) is an independent statutory agency responsible for oversight of Australia’s intelligence and security agencies. IGIS provides assurance to Ministers, Parliament and the public that intelligence agencies act lawfully, with propriety, comply with ministerial guidelines, and respect human rights.

With the passage of the Strengthening Oversight of the National Intelligence Community Act 2025, IGIS’s jurisdiction will expand in 2026 to include all ten National Intelligence Community agencies and additional intelligence functions, resulting in a period of growth and increased oversight activity.

The Opportunity

As an APS Level 6 Intelligence Oversight Officer, you will support the core work of IGIS by contributing to efficient and effective oversight of agencies within IGIS’s jurisdiction.

Working with limited direction, you will apply analytical and critical thinking skills to understand agency activities, identify issues, form considered views, and develop findings and recommendations. Officers may at times lead individual oversight activities and will regularly contribute as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Key responsibilities

1. Contribute to, and at times lead, inspections, inquiries and reviews of intelligence agency activities
2. Conduct research, examine documentation, analyse data and engage with agency staff
3. Apply legislation, policies and procedures to assess intelligence agency activities
4. Identify issues, develop findings and formulate clear, evidence‑based recommendations
5. Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with a range of internal and external stakeholders, including senior managers
6. Establish and maintain productive, independent working relationships across intelligence agencies and government
7. Contribute to oversight planning and broader IGIS organisational activities
8. Support and guide less‑experienced staff where required
9. Handle highly sensitive and classified information with discretion and professionalism

To be successful in this role you will have

1. Well‑developed analytical and critical thinking skills
2. Strong written and verbal communication skills
3. Sound judgement and the ability to work productively in a sensitive environment
4. An organised, flexible and professional approach to complex work
5. A collaborative and respectful working style aligned with IGIS values
6. An interest in oversight, accountability and public administration

The Office is a small portfolio agency within the Attorney- General’s Department. In addition to your core duties, at times you may be asked to undertake tasks that are outside your usual span of duties but that are within the range of your capabilities. Supporting one another provides our people with exposure to functions across the Office and is an integral part of our positive workplace culture, providing opportunities for diverse work, building relationships and innovative methods of working.

Appointment to our Office depends on the outcome of an Employment Suitability Assessment, and appointment and ongoing employment are subject to a Positive Vetting clearance being granted and maintained.

The successful candidate must be located in Canberra or willing to relocate. The IGIS offers relocation assistance to new employees relocating to Canberra from interstate.

For full details on the role, please refer to the Candidate Information Kit on the IGIS careers portal.