Work Type: Ongoing - Full-time
Salary: $70,086 - $96,073
Grade: SciA
Occupation: Agriculture and primary industries
Location: Barwon South West - Warrnambool
Reference: 918
As an Animal Health Officer you will work as a member of the Animal Health and Welfare Unit, to ensure the delivery of major animal health projects that include disease surveillance; livestock legislation and enforcement management; emergency preparedness and response; and traceability and auditing.
Animal Health Officers are required to fulfil surveillance and auditing roles which provide knowledge of the disease and residue status of Victoria’s livestock industries. This information is a key component in maintaining access to markets for Victorian livestock and livestock products, and in mitigating the economic and social effects of disease and residue incidents in Victoria.
The successful applicant will work effectively as a member of a team, enjoy flexible working arrangements and undertake a wide variety of work across the division, involving;
As part of an integrated and flexible business model within the Biosecurity and Agriculture Services Branch, you may also provide support to other programs or other regions.
You must work effectively and cooperatively in a team environment and with other agencies such as Victoria Police, CFA, saleyard managers and livestock agents within the district. You will establish strong working relationships with internal staff and various external stakeholders including private landowners, community and industry groups as well as local and state government agencies.
As this is a regulatory position, you will be required to conduct investigations and appear in court. This position has responsibilities under the Livestock Disease Control Act 1994 (all livestock), the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986, the Stock (Seller Liability and Declaration) Act 1993, the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemical (Control of Use) Act 1992, the Food Act 1984 and the Livestock Management Act 2010.
Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is Warrnambool with hybrid work arrangements available.
To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.
Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.
How to Apply:
If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers.
Click the ‘Apply’ button and you'll be redirected to a new platform and create an account.
Applications close 11.59pm on Monday, 19 January 2026.
All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.
Other relevant information:
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.
To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.
A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace
DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave. For more information visit applying for a role with us.