Senior Visa Processing Officer - Fixed Term (12 months)

About the role

As a Senior Visa Processing Officer, you will contribute to the delivery and integrity of Australia's migration program by assessing complex visa applications, conducting investigations and integrity checks, and providing advice on legislative and policy matters.

This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who enjoys analysing information, exercising sound judgement, and working in a collaborative environment where every decision matters.

Key responsibilities

• Assess, investigate and determine complex visa applications in accordance with legislation, policy and operational guidelines.
• Apply relevant legislation, policies and procedures to make lawful, fair and consistent decisions.
• Conduct integrity and verification activities, including interviews and site visits where required.
• Analyse complex information and provide advice to decision-makers.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Monitor and analyse trends to support fraud detection and program integrity.
• Maintain accurate records and manage information across departmental systems.
• Contribute to section priorities, continuous improvement initiatives and operational objectives.
• Provide support across the team as required.

About you

We are seeking a motivated and highly organised professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys solving complex problems.

You will bring:

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Sound judgement and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management abilities.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Adaptability, resilience and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Experience interpreting legislation, policy or complex information.
• Tertiary qualifications in a relevant field (desirable).
• Experience within a visa processing, application processing, regulatory or compliance environment (desirable).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel (desirable).

Eligibility

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain an Australian Government security clearance.

To be eligible, candidates must be citizen of Australia, New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom or Canada.

Benefits

• 12-month fixed-term opportunity

• Salary: NZD $85,386 per annum

• Employer KiwiSaver contributions equivalent to 6.5% of salary

• Comprehensive leave entitlements include uncapped sick leave and two additional public holidays in addition to New Zealand’s statutory public holidays.

• Performance-based reward opportunities

• Full-time position, 37.50 hours per week

• Complimentary access to the staff gym and squash court

• Supportive, inclusive and collaborative workplace culture

• Opportunities for professional development and specialist skill-building

• Unique opportunity to work at the Australian High Commission Wellington

About us

The Department of Home Affairs delivers Australia's immigration and border programs and contributes to national security, law enforcement, emergency management, cyber security and multicultural affairs.

At the Australian High Commission Wellington, our Immigration and Visa Services Team support Australia's migration program by delivering visa-related services and maintaining the integrity of Australia's border framework.

Apply now

If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding role where you can make an impact, develop specialist skills and contribute to Australia's migration program, we would love to hear from you.

Please submit:

• A one-page cover letter
• A maximum two-page CV

Applications should be emailed to: [email protected]

Applicants must clearly state their citizenship status and ensure they meet both the security clearance requirements of the role and New Zealand work eligibility requirements.

A merit pool may be established and used to fill future vacancies.

For further information, visit https://newzealand.highcommission.gov.au/wltn/Employment\_Opportunities.html

Applications close: 10:00am NZT, 29 October 2026