PRIMARY DETAIL
Lead the University's National Security & Defence compliance in research and promote a culture of research data security and integrity across the University community.
- Salary Package: Circa $167K package negotiable (HEW 9)
- Appointment Type: Full-time, continuing
- Location: Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde; Hybrid working
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Manager, National Security & Defence (Research) to lead a small team of compliance specialists within the Research Services team in the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research) portfolio. This highly sensitive and critical role ensures that our research programs, employment engagements, collaborations and partnerships comply with Australia’s evolving national security and defence legislation, restrictions, sanctions and controls.
This role provides expert advice and oversight on security-related laws affecting research activities, develops robust risk management and compliance systems, and leads initiatives to promote a culture of security compliance and integrity across the University’s community. It also acts as the primary liaison with regulatory bodies and supports the University’s participation in the Defence Industry Security Program (DISP).
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement risk management and compliance processes across the University to ensure research aligns with all applicable security legislation.
- Lead stakeholder consultations to design and maintain best practice policies, systems, and programs that respond to new or amended legislation such as the Defence Trade Controls Act, Autonomous Sanctions Act, and Australia’s Foreign Relations Act.
- Serve as the main point of contact for regulatory agencies, ensuring accurate reporting, data submissions, and records management.
- Develop and execute clear, effective and comprehensive communications plans to ensure University leaders, researchers and other stakeholders are kept informed of their obligations and any changes to legislation, sanctions, controls or other restrictions that must be complied with.
- Develop and deliver appropriate training and education (including awareness raising) on relevant matters to the Macquarie University community.
- Support the Institutional Chief Security Officer in upholding DISP obligations, including bespoke security protocols for individual research projects.
- Monitor and report on compliance, manage any incidents of non-compliance, and represent Macquarie University in national security and defence forums.
About You
You will be a collaborative and proactive professional with (selection criteria):
- A bachelor’s or postgraduate degree and at least five years’ experience in a relevant discipline such as Engineering, Physical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, or related areas.
- Strong working knowledge of Australia’s national security and defence legislative frameworks, including export controls, sanctions, foreign interference, and foreign influence.
- Demonstrated experience working in or with the defence sector and understanding of Defence security requirements.
- Proven ability to analyse complex legislation and translate it into practical guidance, systems and training for diverse research stakeholders.
- Exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement and problem-solving skills with a commitment to fostering a positive culture of compliance.
- Eligibility for a Personnel Security Clearance, which requires Australian Citizenship.
About Us
Macquarie University is recognised globally for its research excellence and impact. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) portfolio leads the University’s research strategy, fostering innovation, research training and meaningful industry partnerships locally and internationally.
The National Security and Defence team is critical to ensuring our research is conducted with integrity and in compliance with all security-focused laws — protecting our researchers, our research and Australia’s national interests.
Why work at Macquarie
We offer a collaborative environment, professional growth opportunities, and the chance to make a real difference in the delivery of the University’s academic, research and health strategic objectives.
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 our benefits on offer:
- 17% Superannuation
- Subsidised onsite parking options
- Macquarie University Metro Station and Bus Interchange
- Flexible working options
- Training and professional development
- Onsite childcare facilities
- Discounted health insurance (Medibank)
- Onsite vacation care
- Employee Assistance Program
- Subsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic Centre
- Onsite Hospital, GP, imaging & physio clinics
*This position requires Qualification, Personnel Security Check and Criminal History Checks.
Application Closes: Sunday 17 August 2025
We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.
For enquiries, or a confidential conversation about the role please contact Kandy White via karolyn.white@mq.edu.au or Sarah Bate, Head of Talent Acquisition on 0412 043 992 or sarah.bate@mq.edu.au.
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:
17/08/2025 11:59 PM
Diversity and Inclusion
Innovation and ingenuity thrive at Macquarie University when diversity, equity and inclusion take centre stage. At the University, we embrace a culture where diversity of background, experience and perspective are fundamental to our success.
We do not discriminate on gender identity, age, culture, disability, sexuality, Indigeneity, family and caring responsibilities or religion. See our journey towards leadership in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education.
Flexible Work
At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, explore our Candidate Resource Hub.
