National Security and Defence Administrator

PRIMARY DETAIL

The National Security and Defence Administrator provides administrative support to the operations of the National Security and Defence (NS&D) Office. The role contributes to the smooth delivery of national security and defence compliance, policy, processes and educational and institutional uplift across Macquarie University. It supports the NS&D in its engagement with Government policy development and other NS&D tertiary working groups.

• Package Circa $100K negotiable (inc. superannuation)
• Full-time, continuing contract; Hybrid work
• Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

Strengthening Macquarie’s Research Security Framework

Join a university committed to research excellence, integrity and global impact.

Macquarie University is seeking a highly organised and detail-oriented National Security and Defence Administrator to support the operations of its National Security and Defence (NS&D) Office within Research Services.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to Australia’s national security research environment by supporting compliance, governance and institutional uplift in a dynamic and evolving regulatory landscape.

About the role

Reporting to the Manager, National Security and Defence, you will provide high-quality administrative and operational support to ensure the University meets its obligations under Australian security-focused legislation and frameworks.

You will play a central role in supporting compliance activities related to export controls, sanctions, foreign interference safeguards and security accreditation requirements, while working closely with researchers, senior leaders and external government stakeholders.

What will you do

• Triage enquiries and provide frontline administrative support on NS&D processes and procedures
• Coordinate formal meetings, prepare agendas and papers, take minutes and track actions
• Support compliance processes under legislation including the Defence Trade Controls Act and Foreign Relations Act
• Assist in managing administrative aspects of the University’s Defence Industry Security Program (DISP) accreditation
• Maintain accurate, secure and compliant record-keeping systems
• Support reporting, briefing preparation and data collection activities
• Update intranet guidance materials and assist with stakeholder communications
• Contribute to continuous improvement of administrative systems and processes

About You: (Selection Criteria)

You are a proactive and highly organised administrator who thrives in a complex, compliance-driven environment. You exercise sound judgement, maintain strict confidentiality and are comfortable working both independently and collaboratively.

You will demonstrate:

• Relevant qualifications and/or equivalent professional experience
• Proven experience in governance and compliance administration
• Able to effectively manage competing deadlines and stakeholder expectations
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ideally experience with SharePoint
• Exceptional attention to detail and record-keeping capability
• A demonstrated ability to interpret policies and follow structured processes
• A commitment to high-quality service and stakeholder engagement

Experience in higher education or government, and familiarity with national security or defence compliance frameworks, will be highly regarded.

Special Requirements:

Due to the nature of this role, the successful applicant must:

• Be an Australian Citizen
• Be eligible to obtain (or currently hold) an Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA) security clearance
• Undergo a criminal history check
• Comply with Defence Industry Security Program (DISP) requirements, including travel and information management protocols

Why work at Macquarie 

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Celebrating its 60th year in 2024, it was established as a bold experiment in higher education and designed to break from educational traditions to work in tandem with industry. Institutionally we strive for the extraordinary by challenging convention and embracing different views. Our pioneering culture has encouraged and inspired students, staff and collaborators to break free from conventional thinking, and to actively shape the complex issues that define the future of humanity Connect with us today. 

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability. Take a look at the staff benefits on offer.

Pre-Employment Checks

Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity.  Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.

Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.

How to apply

Please apply online and attach your resume (no more than 3 pages) and a separate cover letter (no more than 2 pages) that outlines how your experience is aligned to the role against the selection criteria.

For a confidential conversation please contact Sarah Bate, Head of Talent Acquisition via sarah.bate@mq.edu.au .

Applications Close:  Sunday 15 March 2026 at 11:59pm AEDT

We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date. 

If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.

Applications Close:

15/03/2026 11:59 PM

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A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.