Independent National Security Legislation Monitor (INSLM)

Information about the INSLM

The position of INSLM is established under the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor Act 2010 (the Act). The INSLM is responsible for independently reviewing the operation, effectiveness and implications of Australia’s national security and counter‑terrorism laws. The INSLM is required to consider whether the laws contain appropriate protections for individual rights, remain proportionate to terrorism or national security threats, and remain necessary.

The INSLM may conduct reviews on their own initiative, as required by the provisions of the Act itself, or upon referral by the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security, the Attorney‑General or Prime Minister. Information about recent review undertaken by the INSLM can be found at previous reviews undertaken by the INSLM.

In conducting reviews, the powers available to the INSLM are significant. The INSLM can hold public and private hearings for which they may summon persons to attend to give evidence or produce documents or things. The INSLM also has strong information gathering powers outside of hearings. The INSLM may require the production of all relevant information and material, regardless of national security classification. For this reason, the INSLM must have, or be able to hold, a Positive Vetting or Top Secret-Privileged Access security clearance.

The INSLM produces reports on completed reviews. The INSLM’s declassified reports must be tabled in Parliament.

More information about the statutory functions of the INSLM can be found in the Act and on the INSLM website.

The INSLM is appointed by the Governor-General on either a full-time or part-time basis and is supported by a small permanent staff located in Canberra.

Eligibility

To be eligible for appointment as INSLM, applicants must have, or be able to hold, and maintain a Positive Vetting or Top Secret-Privileged Access security clearance. To be eligible for an Australian Government security clearance, you must be an Australian citizen and have a checkable background. The process for achieving this level of clearance involves a whole of life background check.

Selection criteria

In addition to meeting eligibility requirements, applicants will need to demonstrate their capability against the following criteria:

  • demonstrates high level leadership and vision
    • sets a strategic vision and inspires others to achieve this
    • innovative in dealing with issues
    • articulates a clear direction for their work program
  • significant legal expertise
    • experience in national security law or criminal law and an understanding of the operational context
    • supports complex inquiries or reviews involving the use of significant legal powers
    • ability to objectively and independently evaluate laws
  • sophisticated engagement skills
    • operates collaboratively with others to meet the objectives of the role
    • cultivates productive relationships
    • listens to people and values different perspectives, including community, civil society and operational perspectives
  • manages complex operations
    • independently achieves results
    • strong people management skills
    • strong financial management, ensuring efficient, effective and ethical use of resources
    • understanding of and commitment to quality organisational governance
  • high level of judgement
  • demonstrates a high standard of professional and personal integrity and capacity to promote these in an organisation.

We encourage and welcome applications from people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTIQ+ people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and mature age people.

Terms and conditions

The successful applicant will be appointed as INSLM for a period of up to 3 years. Reappointment (once only) is provided for in the Act.

Applicants should note in their expression of interest their preference for a full-time or part‑time appointment. A full-time appointee would be expected to be based in Canberra. There may be some flexibility in the location of a part-time INSLM, noting that regular travel to the Canberra office would be required due to the nature of the work and managerial responsibilities.

Remuneration and allowances for the position are set by the Remuneration Tribunal. Remuneration Determinations for Part-time and Full-time office holders can be viewed on the Remuneration Tribunal website.

Applicants who currently receive a Commonwealth or State or Territory parliamentary pension or superannuation, or other related payments, should seek appropriate advice about remuneration.

How to apply

Apply using the online application form. Applications must include:

  • an indication of whether you meet the eligibility criteria for this statutory appointment
  • a completed statement of claims (2000-word limit) against the eligibility and selection criteria 
  • an uploaded curriculum vitae no longer than 4 pages outlining qualifications, knowledge and experience
  • the names and contact details of at least 2 referees who have direct and relevant experience of your work. You will be notified prior to referees being contacted.

Please let us know the adjustments you need to help you participate in this recruitment process.

Applications close at 5:00 pm AEST on Friday, 21 August 2026.

Assessment process

Applicants will initially be assessed by a panel on their written application. Shortlisted applicants will be further assessed by the panel at interview, and referees contacted.

Communication

Applicants will receive initial advice and communication by email. Please ensure the email address you provide is correct. We recommend using an email address that ensures you do not miss relevant updates or invitations – and please regularly check your junk or spam folders.

Contact

Email enquiries about the position or application process to Executive@approachconsult.com.au or call 0421 471 640 (Approach Consulting).