Senior Privacy Act Requests Officer

Help shape the future of Education

We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes

Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

We have two permanent, full‑time positions available, based in our National Office in Wellington.

The Sensitive Claims team deliver the Ministry’s alternative dispute resolution process to support the resolution of abuse and neglect claims lodged against the Ministry.

The Senior Privacy Act Request Officer supports this work by preparing responses to requests for information made by claimants under the Privacy Act 2020.

This includes undertaking comprehensive records searches to locate personal information and preparing clear, accurate responses that will be provided directly to claimants, their representatives or advocates.

This is a unique and meaningful opportunity to apply your skills and experience in a purposeful way, contributing to positive outcomes and helping to make a difference for some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most vulnerable citizens.

Salary range: $85,225 - $103,071 per annum plus KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here.

About you | Mōhou ake

You will have a relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience, the ability to manage a high workload and the passion and willingness to provide positive outcomes for sensitive claimants.

You will also offer the following:

• Strong knowledge and experience working with the Privacy Act 2020 and Official Information Act 1982, with specific experience preparing responses to requests for information under the Privacy Act
• Clear, confident written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to provide practical, consistent advice that supports decision making
• Knowledge of, or ability to learn about education sector records and archival practices
• Understanding of te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and their relevance to public sector privacy and recordkeeping
• Experience in the public sector
• Strong relationship building skills across diverse stakeholders
• Excellent analytical skills with high attention to detail
• Proven ability to handle sensitive information with discretion
• High level of computer literacy, including Microsoft Office
• Strong organisation and time management skills, able to work at pace
• Adaptable, flexible, and pragmatic approach
• Strong service ethic, with empathy and aroha when working with sensitive claims
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake 

The Sensitive Claims team leads and delivers the Ministry’s redress process for addressing claims of historic abuse or neglect in state schools. A sensitive claim is defined as a claim where an individual alleges that they were abused or neglected at a state or residential special school and is seeking some form of redress. We ensure claims are managed in a respectful, mana-enhancing way, and that claimants and their whānau are at the centre of everything we do.

We also work closely with the Crown Response Office and other state redress agencies on delivering the Government’s Redress response to the recommendations of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in State Care.

Our group sits within Te Pou Taunaki | Learning Support group who are accountable for providing functional leadership to all learning support services spanning national functions and regional delivery, delivered either in-house, by education providers or by other providers.

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.

For further information, please contact Sa Va’aelua, Principal Advisor, Sensitive Claims at Saolelagi.Vaaelua@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Wednesday, 13 May 2026

We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.