From time to time, PHA is interested in suitably qualified graduates as vacancies arise.

About Us

Plant Health Australia is the trusted national coordinator of the Australian plant biosecurity system. We bring expertise, knowledge and stakeholders together to generate solutions that improve biosecurity outcomes to ensure that the system is future-oriented and solutions-focused.

PHA also aspires to be an employer of choice with a strong employee value proposition.

Working for us

In addition to a rewarding, interesting and unique work environment we offer:

• a values-driven culture built on collaboration, innovation, integrity, leadership and care
• a culture of continuous learning with a strong focus on professional evolution and growth;
• study assistance, including five days of study leave per year and full or partial reimbursement of course costs
• three additional days of annual leave a year (over the Christmas/New Year shutdown);
• rebatable employer status offering a broad range of flexible salary sacrifice options
• interstate travel opportunities
• hybrid working arrangements
• great office location with free parking in Canberra’s leafy inner south
• full kitchen facilities and complimentary refreshments and snacks
• flexible, friendly workplace with an active social club.

About the position

Our ongoing efforts to improve biosecurity are focused on investing in essential frontline resources and personnel. We aim to modernise our ICT systems, technology, and data analytics while strengthening partnerships with regulators, producers, and the community.

This includes utilising digital systems such as AUSPestCheck®, a proprietary surveillance and data aggregation system. Additionally, we are continuing to develop the Australian Plant Pest Database (APPD), which is a virtual national compilation of physical plant pest reference collections across Australia. We are also driving the evolution of the Pest and Disease Image Library (PaDIL), a national repository of high-resolution images of pests and diseases. Lastly, we are committed to improving the electronic Plant Health Assurance Certificate (ePHAC) process and digitising it to reduce the manual paper forms required to transport produce within the states and territories.

The Digital Systems team manages PHA’s national biosecurity systems (AUSPestCheck®, APPD, PaDIL and ePHAC) as well as internal corporate IT, Cyber Security and Governance. Our purpose is to champion digital solutions to advance biosecurity systems.

The National Manager, Digital Systems leads the Digital Systems team. The role’s primary responsibility is to lead the development and administration of PHA’s external Digital Systems portfolio and facilitate external partnerships and stakeholder engagement within the business. The position also manages contracts, staff, projects and other activities relevant to the portfolio.

You will work with a diverse range of stakeholders including PHA plant industry and government Members, data scientists, plant pest and disease researchers, taxonomists and IT professionals to identify solutions that enhance biosecurity outcomes and support a more effective and efficient system. As National Manager, Digital Systems, you will also be a member of the several national working groups and committees across government and non-government representatives relating to digital systems and national data management in a biosecurity setting.

Our ideal candidate

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• significant professional experience in the ICT sector with highly advanced skills and knowledge in the development and management of Digital Systems and teams
• tertiary qualifications in ICT, project management or science
• business development and/or commercialisation experience
• proven track record managing complex projects, negotiating contracts and agreements and resolving contract management and related issues
• excellent critical thinking, analytical and problem-solving skills, big-picture thinking as well as strong attention to detail
• strong leadership and people management skills.

In addition, we are interested in hearing from people with experience, skills, knowledge or interest in one or more of the following areas:

• agile delivery practices
• plant, animal or human health and biosecurity
• blockchain activity within the primary production system.

Appointment terms

The position is available on a full-time, fixed term basis for at least two years initially, with the potential for extension. The position is based in the PHA Office in Canberra, however hybrid working, remote or outposted arrangements will also be considered.

The salary range (excluding superannuation) is $166,308 – $199,569 per annum, depending on skills and experience.

There is occasional interstate travel required for this position to represent PHA at meetings or conferences and trade shows or participate in requirements gathering workshops.

Further Information or Enquiries

Please see the Position Description on our website for further information about the role.

Please direct enquiries to Dr Lucy Tran-Nguyen, General Manager – Resilience & Innovation via email in the first instance at LTran-Nguyen@phau.com.au

Work rights

Candidates must have ongoing work rights in Australia, independent of any employment with PHA. PHA does not generally act as a sponsor for employer-nominated visas.

To apply

Please apply online.

You will be asked to upload your up-to-date CV/resume, along with a brief, one-page cover letter, outlining your suitability for this role by referring to the required key capabilities, experience and qualifications in the position description.

Note we do not accept applications submitted via email.

Applications close Wednesday, 20 August 2025 at 11.59pm AEST.