What's your job about?

I work in student wellbeing at the department, working to progress responses to education-related recommendations of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. I also work across the department to inform child safety policy and support engagement with wellbeing initiatives.

What's your background?

I’ve worked in a variety of areas already at the department, particularly in research policy and program management, along with promoting Australia’s international education sector. I’ve utilised my university background in international relations and also worked in completely new areas in schools and student safety and wellbeing. Working in the public service means being exposed to a variety of subject areas and being flexible to changing priorities and work.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Definitely. The public service is all about people from very different backgrounds doing a range of work. It is about your ability to adapt and take on new projects, rather than a clear understanding of the subject matter when you first start.

What's the coolest thing about your job?

I find my work very rewarding, as I can see significant outcomes working in child safety policy. It is important work, that can be confronting, but I recognise its value and the impact the Australian Government is having in making a significant change.

What are the limitations of your job?

There are many things outside of your control, such as changes to department structures and needing to realign work priorities. It’s about focusing on what you can do, and where you can make a difference and is very adaptable to change as it is inevitable.

3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...

1. Take any and all opportunities while you’re studying, whether it’s paid work, internships, work experience, volunteering etc. It’s all incredibly valuable, and even if it is not in your area, you will learn a lot more by exposing yourself to different things.
2. Give yourself plenty of time to consider what you’d like to do when you finish studying. It’s not always about working full-time straight away, but if that’s the case make sure you’re aware that many entry job applications can start more than a year in advance… And have your CV up-to-date and ready to go!
3. Make the most of your holidays – you’ll never have so much time off!