What made you decide to work in the APS?
I had spent my career prior to working for the APS working and volunteering for non-government organisations (NGOs) in the conservation field in Australia and overseas. On moving back to Australia, I became interested in seeing how the other side of the industry worked. Working for NGOs you spend a lot of time applying for government assistance or running work against government regulations, so I thought it would be a great way to experience what work was like on the other side. As well as this I wanted to be in a position where I could directly help to influence change e.g. working in policy.
What other areas in DAWE would you like to work in?
Working in Marine Parks now is a dream come true so I am very happy where I am at the moment, however, in the future, I would love to work in biosecurity again where I spent time in my third rotation or work for the Australian Antarctic Division
When you graduated from university, what were your goals for your future?
To secure a job in my chosen industry where I could feel like I was working towards active conservation of the environment.
How has DAWE helped you achieve these goals so far?
I’ve been part of teams that have actively produced policy documents that will help to protect the environment for future generations. More recently I have worked with grants administration to help deliver funds to on the ground researchers working to deliver conservation objectives for our Australian Marine Parks.
What was your dream job as a kid?
To work in a zoo.
What would be your dream job now?
Marine research/advisory role working to deliver research that advances conservation of the ocean.
What would be your dream achievement in your working life?
To see positive change and outcomes for the marine environment daily coming from the work myself and my team do.
What do you value most in a job?
Engaging with stakeholders in communities where the decisions we make in are directly being affected to work together for the best outcome possible.
Who in your working life have you admired most?
My first director when joining the APS. She guided me to be the APS employee I am today and helped drive me towards my current career path.
If you could have another career, what would it be in?
Nursing was my second choice at university when applying for conservation degrees.