SPA Careers

Opportunities to further your growth

Canberra

Program Analyst

We are seeking a high performing Analyst to join a growing Australia based team supporting one of the most significant Defence capability initiatives in Australia.

Job description +

Systems Planning and Analysis Australia Pty Ltd (SPA Australia) provides senior decision makers within the Australian Department of Defence with timely and objective assessments affecting their capability employment and investment strategies. Our team of former military professionals and operations research analysts integrate military expertise with advanced analytic methods including force generation modelling, agent based tactical simulations, and operational mission analyses to deliver trusted decision support that directly contributes to national security outcomes.

Together with SPA Australia, our AUKUS, Submarines, and Industrial Base Group (ASIG) provides timely, objective, analytic assessments that integrate technical, operational, programmatic, policy and business analysis to NAVSEA Team Submarine program offices and key stakeholders surrounding submarine platform construction. Team Submarine unifies submarine platform procurement activities, which includes the Columbia class SSBN program (a Major Defense Acquisition Program and the US Navy’s top acquisition priority), the Virginia class SSN program and the new SSN X program (developing the next generation attack submarine), to bring improved capabilities to our undersea forces. Analysts and Engineers supporting Team Submarine will continue SPA’s decades of support to the SSBN force, as well as supporting oversight of cutting edge attack submarine construction, assisting in developing the design requirements for the SSN platform of the future, and helping plan and execute new and innovative strategies to strengthen the critical submarine shipbuilding industrial base. These are high profile, major acquisition and manufacturing programs of significant importance to the future capabilities of the US Navy in an era of renewed strategic competition.

The AUKUS COMSUBFOR team within ASIG is charged with delivering high quality, timely tracking, analysis and policy solutions to a variety of challenging problems in the man/train/equip (raise/train/sustain) space. We work in a dynamic environment with new information and bureaucratic realities often forcing adjustments in approach and priorities. Current chartered lines of effort include workforce modelling and future workforce development, policy development, training strategy implementation, knowledge transfer, and operational process development.

Overview

Working within a multinational AUKUS environment, you will contribute to the development and transition of workforce and training solutions, initially aligned to U.S. Navy training systems and evolving to incorporate U.K. Royal Navy training frameworks. This is a unique opportunity to work on complex, nationally significant programs that will help shape Australia’s future.

As a trusted member of the project team, you will work closely with Defence, government, and industry stakeholders, producing high quality analysis, reports, briefings, and recommendations that inform senior decision makers. This role is ideally suited to someone who enjoys solving complex problems, working within multidisciplinary teams, and contributing to meaningful national outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Support workforce planning, modelling, and organisational design activities that enable Defence capability outcomes.
Analyse training systems, workforce requirements, and workforce readiness challenges to identify risks, gaps, and improvement opportunities.
Collect, analyse, and interpret qualitative and quantitative data to support evidence based recommendations.
Develop reports, executive briefings, presentations, and other professional documentation for senior stakeholders.
Facilitate workshops, interviews, and stakeholder engagement activities across Defence, government, and industry organisations.
Contribute to the design and implementation of workforce and training solutions aligned with Defence objectives.
Support project planning, risk management, and delivery activities within a complex stakeholder environment.
Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary and multinational teams, both virtually and in person, to achieve program outcomes.

We are looking for a motivated and mission focused professional with the following attributes:

Experience in workforce planning, organisational design, training analysis, operational analysis or a related discipline.
Strong analytical and problem solving skills, including the ability to work through complex issues and competing stakeholder requirements.
Excellent written communication skills, with experience producing professional reports, briefings, and recommendations.
Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills, including the ability to work effectively with senior leaders and subject matter experts.
The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within high performing teams.
A genuine interest in Defence capability development, workforce transformation, and major national programs.

Essential Requirements:

Ability to work on site in Canberra, ACT, including full time attendance where required by client needs.
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, or Trade training of 5 years’ experience with Navy operations and training preferred, alternatively, STEM education or background may be suitable
Experience in Defence, government, consulting, or other complex operational environments.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with senior leaders; strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen attention to detail
Proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint, Word, and Excel.

Desirable Experience:

Experience supporting Defence workforce, training, or capability development programs.
Experience working with Defence personnel and stakeholders.
Navy operations, training, or workforce experience.
Submarine or undersea warfare experience.
Australian citizenship and an active NV2 security clearance or higher. More information on eligibility for an Australian security clearance can be found at: https://www.defence.gov.au/security/clearances/about/vetting-assessment#eligibility.

The SPA Australia Difference

We believe work should be a positive part of your life. It should challenge, engage, and support you in equal measure. By joining SPA Australia, you will enjoy:

Flexible working options
Health and Wellbeing support
Professional development
Career progression pathways supporting your development and career goals
The chance to give back to your community by working with our not for profit partners

Why SPA Australia

We offer a competitive salary package with options to earn on the job awards and bonuses, a collaborative team environment, a swag of benefits to support you and your colleagues, and the opportunity to do high impact, meaningful work. We are looking for someone that is able to start ASAP.

To find out more or to have a confidential discussion, please contact Loretta Pabian at careers@au.spa.com

Apply now

Canberra

DISP Security Officer

Reporting to the Group Manager – Technology & Security, you'll support the day-to-day security activities across governance, personnel and physical security. This will include coordinating security briefings, maintaining security records and documentation, supporting compliance activities and helping employees understand their security responsibilities.

Job description +

Working with us – Systems Planning & Analysis (SPA) Australia

SPA Australia is a leading provider of integrated consulting, legal, commercial and analytics services to government and large organisations. Our multidisciplinary approach combined with trusted advisory and leading-edge technology and analysis takes our clients further. For more than five decades, Systems Planning & Analysis (SPA) has supported clients across the world to meet complex national security challenges.

In 2025 SPA Australia acquired Proximity Advisory Services, a well-established and highly regarded consultancy organisation with unrivalled legal abilities, exceptional commercial capability, and a raft of specialisations in consulting. Today, SPA has more than 3,300 employees across 23 office locations within the US, UK and Australia. In Australia, more than 130 employees are based across Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.

SPA Australia is seeking a DISP Security Officer to support and coordinate the organisation’s governance, compliance, personnel security and physical security requirements in line with the Defence Industry Security Program (DISP), Defence Security Principles Framework (DSPF), Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF) and related security obligations.

We’re looking for a practical security professional who enjoys working across a broad range of security and compliance activities. You may have experience in security, risk, governance, compliance, Defence or government environments and be looking to further develop your security knowledge.

About The Job

In this role, you’ll work with stakeholders across the business and support security initiatives that have a meaningful impact in a collaborative, mid-sized organisation. Whether your experience is in personnel security, physical security, information security, governance or compliance, you’ll be comfortable interpreting security requirements, building stakeholder relationships and helping the organisation meet its obligations while fostering a strong security culture.

We recognise that not all security professionals will have direct DISP experience. If you have experience working within Defence, government or another regulated environment and are familiar with security, governance or compliance frameworks, we’d welcome your application.

The successful candidate will be supported to complete any required DISP Security Officer training and develop the skills and knowledge needed to perform the role effectively.

Most importantly, you’ll be practical, collaborative and interested in building your career in security.

Responsibilities:

Coordinate DISP compliance across Governance, Personnel and Physical Security, supporting the CISO with Information Security requirements.
Monitor DISP, DSPF, PSPF and ISM requirements and support the implementation of updates.
Coordinate security briefings, awareness training and onboarding across the organisation.
Support the development and maintenance of security policies, plans and procedures.
Coordinate security incidents, including reporting, investigation and remediation activities.
Manage personnel security processes, including clearance monitoring and security records, and support audits and compliance reviews.
Coordinate security projects and physical security initiatives, while promoting a strong security culture across the organisation.

Minimum qualifications:

Experience in security, risk, compliance, governance, Defence or government environments
Good written and verbal communication skills
Ability to understand, interpret and apply policies, frameworks and procedures
Ability to obtain and maintain an NV2 security clearance. Existing clearance holders are encouraged to apply
ITAR/EAR compliance experience desirable but not essential

Desirable Experience and Qualifications:

Relevant qualifications in security, risk, governance, technology or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience
DISP Security Officer (SO) training or experience supporting DISP compliance activities
Experience across one or more security domains, including personnel, physical and/or information security
Experience supporting audits, assurance activities or compliance reviews
Experience managing security-related projects, secure facilities or office fitouts

Location and Security Requirements

This position is based on-site in Canberra, Australia and requires Australian citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain an Australian Government NV2 security clearance. Existing clearance holders are encouraged to apply. SPA Australia is unable to sponsor Australian visas for this position.

The SPA Australia Difference

We believe work should be a positive part of your life. It should challenge, engage, and support you in equal measure. By joining SPA Australia, you will enjoy:

Flexible working options
Health and Wellbeing support
Professional development
Career progression pathways supporting your development and career goals
The chance to give back to your community by working with our not-for-profit partners

Why SPA Australia

We offer a competitive salary package with options to earn on-the-job awards and bonuses, a collaborative team environment, a swag of benefits to support you and your colleagues, and the opportunity to do high-impact, meaningful work. To find out more or to have a confidential discussion, please contact Loretta Pabian at careers@au.spa.com

Apply now

Canberra

Government Lawyer

A minimum of 5 years’ experience in public law, commercial law, information law, or litigation within, or for, the Commonwealth.

Job description +

Where Your Legal Career Goes Further

Exceptional client work that makes a difference
Flexible working options – including permanent and contract roles to suit your lifestyle
Competitive salaries and benefits, or rates that reflect your skills and experience
Clear pathways for development and opportunities to advance

Working with us

Systems Planning and Analysis, Australia (SPA Australia) is a leading provider of integrated consulting, legal, commercial, and analytics services to government. Our multidisciplinary approach, combined with trusted advisory and leading-edge technology and analysis, takes our clients further.

For more than five decades, Systems Planning & Analysis Inc (SPA), SPA Australia’s parent company, has supported government clients across the world to navigate a myriad of complex challenges. In 2025, SPA acquired Proximity, a well-established and highly regarded consultancy with specialist expertise in delivering legal, consulting, and commercial advisory services to government.

Today, SPA has more than 2,200 employees across 15 offices in the US, UK, and Australia, with over 130 employees in Australia alone.

Government Lawyers – 5+ years PQE

SPA Australia, formerly Proximity, is looking for Government Lawyers to join its Legal Group. Our Legal Group is a go-to for Commonwealth legal teams requiring expertise and support on complex matters specialising in administrative law, commercial law, information law, and litigation. We’re committed to helping our clients succeed by embracing the complexity and sensitivity of Commonwealth legal issues and knowing how to be helpful within the APS environment.

Our legal secondment model provides opportunities to foster your career growth, work in a variety of legal roles across the Commonwealth and accelerate your legal expertise. As a member of our Legal Group, we offer you the opportunity to engage in fascinating public sector work, all while receiving support, development, and care.

Our lawyers bring passion and purpose to everything they do – and have fun doing it – without compromising our commitment to clients, integrity, and pro bono work.

Key responsibilities

Working as a seconded lawyer in the Federal Government requires:
Navigating complex issues with sound legal insight
Curiosity, responsiveness, adaptability, and integrity
Building strong client relationships by working proactively onsite
A desire to share your legal expertise and build capability in others
Demonstrating your specialist or generalist legal capability on matters of significance.

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

A minimum of 5 years’ experience in public law, commercial law, information law, or litigation within, or for, the Commonwealth
A restricted (minimum) Australian legal practising certificate (ACT, NSW, or VIC)
An AGSVA security clearance (Baseline minimum).

Working with SPA Australia

Collaborating with our clients to overcome challenges and achieve excellent outcomes is what matters most. We create an exceptional workplace culture that empowers our people with the confidence and knowledge to find the ‘right fit’ solution for client needs. We’re committed to a safe and respectful workplace where everyone – regardless of identity, orientation, background, or ability – feels valued and accepted. Our values are central to everything we do. We strengthen our culture and client advantage by being Genuine, taking a Bold Approach, and delivering Helpful outcomes in an Objective, Trusted, and Responsive way.

The SPA difference

We believe work should be a positive part of your life – challenging, engaging, and supportive in equal measure. By joining SPA, you’ll enjoy:

Competitive pay and benefits, with opportunities to earn awards and bonuses
Health and wellbeing support – financial and educational
An environment where everyone can thrive
Professional development (CPD) support and funding
Opportunities to give back through work with our not-for-profit partners.

Does this sound like the right organisation for you?

To find out more or to have a confidential discussion, please contact Loretta Pabian at careers@au.spa.com

Canberra

DISP Security Officer

SPA Australia is seeking an experienced DISP Security & Facilities Manager to support the organisation’s governance, compliance, personnel security, and physical security requirements in line with Defence Industry Security Program (DISP), Defence Security Principles Framework (DSPF), and Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF).

Job description +

About The Job

Working with the Technology & Security team, you will act as the DISP Security lead, ensuring the company’s compliance within our DISP security obligations.

Reporting to the Group Manager – Technology & Security, you will be responsible for delivering governance, compliance, personnel and physical security briefings to employees and management. You will work closely with the Technology & Security team to ensure DISP requirements are effectively implemented across SPA Australia’s operations.

You will also take an active role in facilities management, working with vendors to support compliant and efficient site operations. The role includes contributing to stakeholder engagements, maintaining awareness of evolving DISP obligations, and supporting the review and update of policies, procedures, and training.

Demonstrated knowledge of the Defence Security Principles Framework (DSPF) and the Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF) is essential. Knowledge of the Information Security Manual (ISM) is desirable and can be developed in the role.

Your strong communication skills will support the delivery of key information in management meetings, as well as clearly conveying complex security requirements to employees, including newly onboarded or security-cleared personnel.

Responsibilities:

Lead DISP security compliance across the three key security domains (Governance, Personnel, Physical) and provide support to the Chief Information Security Officer for the Information Security domain

Deliver DISP security briefings and awareness training across the organisation

Develop, implement, and maintain security policies, plans, and procedures

Establish and maintain a robust compliance framework aligned with PSPF, DSPF, and ISM

Oversee and manage security incidents, including investigation, reporting, and remediation

Manage personnel security processes, including monitoring clearance status and onboarding briefings

Maintain security documentation, and support audit readiness

Act as the primary liaison with relevant government security stakeholders

Support internal and external audits and assurance activities

Promote a strong security culture across the organisation

Minimum qualifications:

CertIV or Bachelor’s degree in a business or related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.

3+ years’ experience in implementing Defence Industry Security Program (DISP) frameworks

Knowledge of and application of Australian security accreditation standards (PSPF, DSPF, ISM)
Experience delivering organisation-wide security training and compliance across personnel and physical domains; ICT security experience is desirable

EITAR/EAR compliance experience desirable but not essential

**This position is located on-site in in Canberra, Australia and requires the ability to obtain a Negative Vetting 2 (NV2) security clearance. SPA Australia is unable to sponsor an Australian Visa (Australian Citizenship Required). 

Preferred qualifications:

Completion of DISP Security Officer (SO) training, or willingness to undertake
Security Risk Management certification

Current AGSVA NV2 security clearance

The SPA Australia Difference

We believe work should be a positive part of your life. It should challenge, engage, and support you in equal measure. By joining SPA Australia, you will enjoy:

Flexible working options
Health and Wellbeing support
Professional development
Career progression pathways supporting your development and career goals
The chance to give back to your community by working with our not-for-profit partners

Why SPA Australia

Apply now

Canberra

Director – Joint

This senior role provides strategic leadership to high-performance, cross-functional teams conducting advanced quantitative and qualitative analyses of Australian and adversary military operations and capabilities across all warfighting domains, missions, and functional areas.

Working with us – Systems Planning & Analysis, Australia (SPA)

In 2025 SPA acquired Proximity Advisory Services, a well-established and highly regarded consultancy organisation with unrivalled legal abilities, exceptional commercial capability, and a raft of specialisations in consulting. Today, SPA has more than 2,800 employees across 15 office locations within the US, UK and Australia. In Australia, more than 130 employees are based across Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.

SPA Australia’s Defence & Analytics team provides senior decision-makers within the Australian Department of Defence (Defence) with timely, objective assessments that inform capability employment and investment strategies.

Our team of former military professionals and operations research analysts integrates deep operational expertise with advanced analytic methodologies—including force generation modelling, agent-based tactical simulations, and operational mission analyses—to deliver trusted decision support that directly contributes to national security outcomes.

SPA Australia offers decision-makers within the Australian Defence Force evidence-based insights that address capacity and capability gaps, strengthen operational effectiveness, and optimise the deployment of current, and future Defence capabilities.

SPA seeks a passionate and dedicated Director to join our Defence & Analytics practice.

The Director will lead multiple concurrent workstreams—often under tight timelines—while rapidly assimilating new information, technologies, and concepts. The role requires the ability to anticipate emerging analytical needs, balance immediate customer priorities, and consistently deliver rigorous, defensible insights that inform senior decision-makers at strategic and operational levels.

This role will suit an experienced defence professional with demonstrated fluency across priority military operations and the enabling capabilities that underpin them. The successful candidate will also play a critical role in business development, leveraging existing networks to identify opportunities, strengthen client relationships, and contribute to the growth of the Defence & Analytics practice.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide strategic leadership to cross-functional teams conducting complex analysis across all warfighting domains assessing Australian and adversary military operations, capabilities and capacities.
Foster a mission-focused, high-performance culture and provide strong leadership to project teams.
Demonstrate and apply deep expertise in military operations and support and enabling capability roadmaps
Build high level relationships with senior Defence stakeholders and be a trusted advisor.
Support Defence clients in the planning, design, and execution of experimentation and operational analysis aligned with joint force design and integration priorities.
Facilitate stakeholder engagements, including workshops and demonstrations.
Oversee multiple concurrent analytical workstreams, ensuring timely delivery of rigorous, defensible analysis that supports strategic and operational decision-making.
Write capability analysis reports and briefs and present results to stakeholders from a wide range of Defence organisation and varying levels of domain expertise
Support clients in implementing operational and tactical plans that contribute to national security objectives.
Identify strategic growth opportunities across the joint domain and lead growth within the defence joint operations market.

Required Experience:

15 + years relevant Australia Defence and Australia Federal Government experience in military operations and associated technologies.
Demonstrated expertise in providing one or more warfighting domains, missions, or functional areas to the Australia Defence Force.
Background in capability development, systems engineering, operations or mission analysis.
Proven ability to conduct rigorous research and analysis and form defensible conclusions using available, often incomplete, information.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, producing compelling and clear analytic products and briefings to support senior-leadership decision-making.
Experience leading small teams and projects in support of Australian Defence capabilities, or Australia Federal Government key projects.
Demonstrated ability to apply innovative analytical concepts, quantitative tools, and data visualisation methods to military problem sets and present results to executive-level leaders.
Experience in Australian military operational planning within an operational headquarters or in Australian Defence capability management (including requirements definition, capability documentation, modelling and simulation, or operations research).
International Defence cooperation initiatives experience highly regarded.
Current Negative Vetting 2 (NV2) Australian security clearance, or willingness and ability to obtain and maintain one.

Desired Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline; or substantial military experience plus an advanced non-technical degree and proven Defence capability acumen (e.g., completion of the Capability Technology Management Program or equivalent).

Note: International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR) are applicable to this role and as such, the position will or is likely to require access to material controlled by ITAR and EAR (Controlled Material). Therefore, any person occupying the position must be able to satisfy ITAR and EAR controls, which may require specific authorisation to access Controlled Materials. Accordingly, your citizenship, previous citizenships, race or nationality, or substantive contacts where such contacts are affiliated with proscribed countries under ITAR may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role. Further information on this requirement can be found at: https://spa.com/about/compliance-statements/. If you are concerned about whether you will satisfy the requirements of the role insofar as they relate to ITAR and EAR, you should contact Talent@spa.com, who will be able to provide you with relevant information.

The SPA Australia Difference

We believe work should be a positive part of your life. It should challenge, engage, and support you in equal measure. By joining SPA Australia, you will enjoy:

Flexible working options
Health and Wellbeing support
Professional development
Career progression pathways supporting your development and career goals
The chance to give back to your community by working with our not-for-profit partners.

Why SPA Australia

We provide a highly competitive executive compensation package, performance-based incentives, a collaborative and supportive leadership environment, comprehensive employee benefits, and the opportunity to oversee work that delivers significant strategic impact and meaningful outcomes.

To find out more or to have a confidential discussion, please contact Loretta Pabian at careers@proximity.com.au / careers@au.spa.com

Canberra

Procurement Specialist – Senior Advisor

We’re in search of a Procurement specialist to join the Commercial Group and support the delivery of key strategic objectives within our client’s environment.

Where Careers Go Further

Work with a variety of government agencies and projects
Grow your career within a dynamic, supportive team
Hit the ground running for the New Year

Working with us – Systems Planning & Analysis (SPA) Australia

SPA Australia is a leading provider of integrated consulting, legal, commercial and analytics services to government and large organisations. Our multidisciplinary approach combined with trusted advisory and leading-edge technology and analysis takes our clients further. For more than five decades, Systems Planning & Analysis (SPA) has supported clients across the world to meet complex national security challenges.

In 2025 SPA Australia acquired Proximity Advisory Services, a well-established and highly regarded consultancy organisation with unrivalled legal abilities, exceptional commercial capability, and a raft of specialisations in consulting. Today, SPA has more than 2,200 employees across 15 office locations within the US, UK and Australia. In Australia, more than 130 employees are based across Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.

Procurement Specialist – Commercial Group

Our team is growing, with client work ready to be delivered. We’re in search of a Procurement specialist to join the Commercial Group and support the delivery of key strategic objectives within our client’s environment. Confidence in executing elements of the procurement life cycle is needed, along with strong stakeholder engagement, and understanding of the strategic and operational approach.

Our clients are seeking high level support with complex procurements and commercial activities, especially in ICT or Defence environments. However, our other Federal Government clients also have some high profile and complex programs to deliver – talk to us about what expertise you have and domains you can add value in today, and tomorrow.

Key responsibilities

Use your stakeholder management and project documentation skills to achieve successful client outcomes
Plan and deliver our clients procurement activities
Develop RFx documentation, support evaluations and contract negotiations that demonstrate value for money
Support the provision of ‘first line’ probity advice to ensure ethical behaviour during procurement processes
Inform and deliver upon project key milestones
Work collaboratively to develop performance management methodologies that encourage strong performance
Deliver and/or negotiate value-based outcomes for business areas
Use contract and vendor management tools; manage risks and issues
Be able to demonstrate initiative and a proactive approach in a dynamic environment

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

Demonstrated experience in developing procurement documentation in consultation with stakeholders, using either Commonwealth panel arrangements and/or adhering to the Commonwealth Procurement Framework
Strong communication skills and demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a variety of stakeholders
Sound ICT knowledge and understanding of procurement enabling programs
Cert IV Procurement and Contract Management, or CIPS/PASA membership and learning
The ability to lead teams, influence outcomes, mentor others
Over 3 years’ experience working within government, consulting, or a professional services environment will be highly regarded.

An Australian Government Security Clearance (Baseline or above) is required. The role is based in Canberra, and work is delivered on-site with clients.

Working with SPA Australia

Collaborating with our clients to overcome challenges and achieve excellent outcomes is what matters most. We create an exceptional workplace culture that empowers our people with the confidence and knowledge to find the ‘right fit’ solution for client needs. We’re committed to a safe and respectful workplace where everyone – regardless of identity, orientation, background, or ability – feels valued and accepted. Our values are central to everything we do. We strengthen our culture and client advantage by being Genuine, taking a Bold Approach, and delivering Helpful outcomes in an Objective, Trusted, and Responsive way.

The SPA difference

We believe work should be a positive part of your life. It should challenge, engage, and support you in equal measure. By joining SPA, you’ll enjoy:

Flexible working options
Health and wellbeing support – financial and educational
Professional development, support and funding
Career progression pathways supporting your development and career goals
The chance to give back to your community by working with our not-for-profit partners

Does this sound like the right organisation for you?

This role offers more than a procurement challenge – it’s a chance to help our clients manage change and create a difference. You’ll play a vital role in the Commercial team, where your ideas and expertise count.

To find out more or to have a confidential discussion, please contact Loretta Pabian at careers@proximity.com.au / careers@au.spa.com

Canberra

Financial Procurement & Commercial Specialist – Senior Advisor

We are seeking an experienced Financial Analyst/Cost Modeller, ideally CPA-qualified, with extensive expertise in supporting strategic procurement and/or contract management for government projects or agencies.

Where Careers Goes Further

Work on high-profile, complex projects across a range of government agencies
Accelerate your career within a dynamic, collaborative, and supportive team environment
Step into meaningful work immediately and make an impact from day one in the New Year

Working with us

SPA Australia is a leading provider of integrated consulting, legal, commercial and analytics services to government and large organisations. Our multidisciplinary approach combined with trusted advisory and leading-edge technology and analysis takes our clients further. For more than five decades, Systems Planning & Analysis (SPA) has supported clients across the world to meet complex national security challenges.

In 2025 SPA Australia acquired Proximity Advisory Services, a well-established and highly regarded consultancy organisation with unrivalled legal abilities, exceptional commercial capability, and a raft of specialisations in consulting. Today, SPA has more than 2,200 employees across 15 office locations within the US, UK and Australia. In Australia, more than 130 employees are based across Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.

Procurement Specialist – Commercial Group

Our team is growing, with client work ready to be delivered. We are seeking an experienced Financial Analyst/Cost Modeller, ideally CPA-qualified, with extensive expertise in supporting strategic procurement and/or contract management for government projects or agencies.

The Procurement & Contract team delivers on-site services to our Commonwealth clients. We assist our clients to solve real problems and strive to make a meaningful difference.

Our clients are seeking high-level support for complex procurement and commercial activities, particularly within ICT or Defence environments. In addition, our other Federal Government clients are delivering a range of high-profile and complex programs that require specialist expertise.

Key responsibilities

Use stakeholder management and project documentation skills to achieve successful client outcomes
Plan and deliver major procurement projects
Develop RFx documentation, support evaluations, and assist with contract negotiations that demonstrate value for money
Support the provision of first-line probity advice, governance, and assurance to ensure ethical behaviour throughout procurement processes
Deliver and/or negotiate value-based outcomes for business areas
Use contract and vendor management tools to ensure compliance and effectively manage risks and issues
Demonstrate initiative and a proactive approach in a dynamic environment
Support government client projects with financial management, including project budget preparation, actual profit and loss reporting and analysis, and commitment reporting
Provide project finance advice and support, acting as the first point of contact for a range of stakeholders
Process monthly and year-end project close activities, including account reconciliations, accruals, and adjustment journals
Assist with project trend analysis, highlighting key implications and recommended actions.

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

Demonstrated experience in developing procurement documentation in consultation with stakeholders, with strong procurement, financial, and project management experience using Commonwealth panel arrangements and/or in accordance with the Commonwealth Procurement Framework
Proven governance experience, including adherence to probity, assurance, and risk management requirements
Ability to lead end-to-end tender processes, from planning and market engagement through to evaluation and contract award
Strong communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and influence outcomes across a diverse range of stakeholders
Sound ICT knowledge, including an understanding of procurement-enabling programs and digital platforms
Extensive experience working within government, consulting, or a professional services environment; experience of five years or more will be highly regarded
Certificate IV in Procurement and Contract Management
A bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Commerce, or Business Administration
CPA Australia membership (or eligibility)
Experience working with accounting systems and enterprise resource planning (ERP) platforms.

An Australian Government Security Clearance (Baseline or above) is required. The role is based in Canberra, and work is delivered on-site with clients.

Working with SPA Australia

Collaborating with our clients to overcome challenges and achieve excellent outcomes is what matters most. We create an exceptional workplace culture that empowers our people with the confidence and knowledge to find the ‘right fit’ solution for client needs. We’re committed to a safe and respectful workplace where everyone – regardless of identity, orientation, background, or ability – feels valued and accepted. Our values are central to everything we do. We strengthen our culture and client advantage by being Genuine, taking a Bold Approach, and delivering Helpful outcomes in an Objective, Trusted, and Responsive way.

The SPA difference

We believe work should be a positive part of your life. It should challenge, engage, and support you in equal measure. By joining SPA, you’ll enjoy:

Flexible working options
Health and wellbeing support – financial and educational
Professional development, support and funding
Career progression pathways supporting your development and career goals
The chance to give back to your community by working with our not-for-profit partners

Does this sound like the right organisation for you?

This role offers more than a procurement challenge – it’s a chance to help our clients manage change and create a difference.

To find out more or to have a confidential discussion, please contact Loretta Pabian at careers@proximity.com.au / careers@au.spa.com

Canberra

Government Lawyer

A minimum of 5 years’ experience in public law, commercial law, information law, or litigation within, or for, the Commonwealth.

Where Your Legal Career Goes Further

Exceptional client work that makes a difference
Flexible working options – including permanent and contract roles to suit your lifestyle
Competitive salaries and benefits, or rates that reflect your skills and experience
Clear pathways for development and opportunities to advance

Working with us

For more than five decades, Systems Planning & Analysis Inc (SPA), SPA Australia’s parent company, has supported government clients across the world to navigate a myriad of complex challenges. In 2025, SPA acquired Proximity, a well-established and highly regarded consultancy with specialist expertise in delivering legal, consulting, and commercial advisory services to government.

Today, SPA has more than 2,200 employees across 15 offices in the US, UK, and Australia, with over 130 employees in Australia alone.

Government Lawyers – 5+ years PQE

Our lawyers bring passion and purpose to everything they do – and have fun doing it – without compromising our commitment to clients, integrity, and pro bono work.

Key responsibilities

Working as a seconded lawyer in the Federal Government requires:

Navigating complex issues with sound legal insight
Curiosity, responsiveness, adaptability, and integrity
Building strong client relationships by working proactively onsite
A desire to share your legal expertise and build capability in others
Demonstrating your specialist or generalist legal capability on matters of significance.

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

A minimum of 5 years’ experience in public law, commercial law, information law, or litigation within, or for, the Commonwealth
A restricted (minimum) Australian legal practising certificate (ACT, NSW, or VIC)
An AGSVA security clearance (Baseline minimum).

Working with SPA Australia

Collaborating with our clients to overcome challenges and achieve excellent outcomes is what matters most. We create an exceptional workplace culture that empowers our people with the confidence and knowledge to find the ‘right fit’ solution for client needs. We’re committed to a safe and respectful workplace where everyone – regardless of identity, orientation, background, or ability – feels valued and accepted. Our values are central to everything we do. We strengthen our culture and client advantage by being Genuine, taking a Bold Approach, and delivering Helpful outcomes in an Objective, Trusted, and Responsive way.

The SPA difference

We believe work should be a positive part of your life – challenging, engaging, and supportive in equal measure. By joining SPA, you’ll enjoy:

Competitive pay and benefits, with opportunities to earn awards and bonuses
Health and wellbeing support – financial and educational
An environment where everyone can thrive
Professional development (CPD) support and funding
Opportunities to give back through work with our not-for-profit partners.

Does this sound like the right organisation for you?

To find out more or to have a confidential discussion, please contact Loretta Pabian at careers@au.spa.com

Canberra

Procurement Specialist

We’re in search of a Procurement specialist to join the Commercial Group and support the delivery of key strategic objectives within our client’s environment. Confidence in executing elements of the procurement life cycle is needed, along with strong stakeholder engagement, and understanding of the strategic and operational approach.

Where Careers Go Further

Work with a variety of government agencies and projects
Grow your career within a dynamic, supportive team
Hit the ground running with an ASAP start

Working with us – Systems Planning & Analysis (SPA) Australia

SPA Australia is a leading provider of integrated consulting, legal, commercial and analytics services to government and large organisations. Our multidisciplinary approach combined with trusted advisory and leading-edge technology and analysis takes our clients further. For more than five decades, Systems Planning & Analysis (SPA) has supported clients across the world to meet complex national security challenges.

In 2025 SPA Australia acquired Proximity Advisory Services, a well-established and highly regarded consultancy organisation with unrivalled legal abilities, exceptional commercial capability, and a raft of specialisations in consulting. Today, SPA has more than 2,200 employees across 15 office locations within the US, UK and Australia. In Australia, more than 130 employees are based across Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.

Procurement Specialist – Commercial Group

Key responsibilities

Use your stakeholder management and project documentation skills to achieve successful client outcomes
Plan and deliver our clients procurement activities
Develop RFx documentation, support evaluations and contract negotiations that demonstrate value for money
Support the provision of ‘first line’ probity advice to ensure ethical behaviour during procurement processes
Inform and deliver upon project key milestones
Work collaboratively to develop performance management methodologies that encourage strong performance
Deliver and/or negotiate value-based outcomes for business areas
Use contract and vendor management tools; manage risks and issues
Be able to demonstrate initiative and a proactive approach in a dynamic environment

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

Demonstrated experience in developing procurement documentation in consultation with stakeholders, using either Commonwealth panel arrangements and/or adhering to the Commonwealth Procurement Framework
Strong communication skills and demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a variety of stakeholders
Sound ICT knowledge and understanding of procurement enabling programs
Cert IV Procurement and Contract Management, or CIPS/PASA membership and learning
The ability to lead teams, influence outcomes, mentor others
Over 3 years’ experience working within government, consulting, or a professional services environment will be highly regarded.

An Australian Government Security Clearance (Baseline or above) is required. The role is based in Canberra, and work is delivered on-site with clients.

Working with SPA Australia

Collaborating with our clients to overcome challenges and achieve excellent outcomes is what matters most. We create an exceptional workplace culture that empowers our people with the confidence and knowledge to find the ‘right fit’ solution for client needs. We’re committed to a safe and respectful workplace where everyone – regardless of identity, orientation, background, or ability – feels valued and accepted. Our values are central to everything we do. We strengthen our culture and client advantage by being Genuine, taking a Bold Approach, and delivering Helpful outcomes in an Objective, Trusted, and Responsive way.

The SPA difference

We believe work should be a positive part of your life. It should challenge, engage, and support you in equal measure. By joining SPA, you’ll enjoy:

Flexible working options
Health and wellbeing support – financial and educational

Professional development, support and funding
Career progression pathways supporting your development and career goals
The chance to give back to your community by working with our not-for-profit partners

Does this sound like the right organisation for you?

To find out more or to have a confidential discussion, please contact Loretta Pabian at careers@au.spa.com

CAREERS

We’re looking for lawyers who also love…

flexibility, like Hannah. Reach out to careers@au.spa.com today.