Unit/mission: The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Canberra

Job level: scale 9

Number of working hours per week: 38

We are looking for an enthusiastic, proactive and flexible professional who can work independently and in a team, demonstrates integrity and discretion, and operates confidently in an international and diplomatic environment. With a sound understanding of international trade and the strategic role of Customs within it.

Please note: Applicants must have valid working rights in Australia (Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or temporary work visa).

The Netherlands Customs Administration, as part of the Ministry of Finance, is represented in the Asia-Pacific region by three Customs Attachés, based in Canberra, Beijing and Singapore. The Attaché at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Canberra also serves as the Regional Manager for the Asia-Pacific region.

The key responsibility of this attaché network is to be aware of the key developments on Customs matters in the region, to identify opportunities and risks for the tasks and (international) strategy of the Netherlands Customs Administration and to act on those in cooperation with the home organisation. Therefore, the network maintains close working relationships with customs administrations, law enforcement agencies, diplomatic missions, trade partners, and relevant international organisations across the Asia-Pacific region.

Candidate profile 

The role of the Customs policy officer mainly includes analysing customs-related developments in the Asia-Pacific region, preparing reports and documentation, coordinating regional contacts, and advising the Customs Attaché. The role also involves contributing to a large extent to the annual regional plan and the reports, as well as to the Joint Workplans between the Netherlands Customs Administration and the Australian Border Force and New Zealand Customs Service. In addition, the role includes supporting the work of the Customs Attaché at the embassy in Canberra and organising missions and meetings.

Key Competencies 

Education level: Bachelor’s degree preferred; relevant experience may substitute.
Work experience: At least 2–3 years of relevant work experience in an international environment.

The key competencies for this position are: 

• Analytical skills
• Proactive attitude
• Independence
• Integrity and confidentiality
• Stress resillience
• Strong communication skills
• Networking skills
• Judgement and decision-making skills

Result areas

• Collecting and analysing customs-related information, developments and trends within the Asia-Pacific region.
• Preparing plans and reports, analytical briefings and written summaries to support the Customs Attaché’s decision-making.
• Contributing to a large extent to the annual plans and reports
• Managing dossiers and organising documentation, ensuring proper structure, completeness and accessibility.
• Maintaining communication with customs administrations in the region, including ABF (Australian Border Force), NZCS (New Zealand Customs Service), international organisations, and other relevant authorities.
• Coordinating with embassies, consulates and other parts of the Dutch mission network across the Asia-Pacific region.
• Organising missions and meetings.
• Supporting logistical arrangements for travel, appointments, official visits and delegations.
• Assisting in administrative and operational tasks as required.
• Providing basic continuity of communication and liaison in the absence of the Customs Attaché.

Working environment

The Customs Attaché operates as a team member of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Canberra. The Embassy employs approximately 17 staff members. The Customs Policy Officer works directly with the Customs Attaché and maintains a broad network of contacts across the Asia-Pacific region and the Netherlands.

Conditions

Number of hours: 38 hours per week, The Embassy offers a full time position (38 hours), initially for one year with the possibility of extension, with a probation period of 2 months
Annual gross salary will start at AUD 10.505 per month. Relevant experience can lead to a higher entry level.

Placement period: 12 months with possibility of extension
Employment type: Locally employed staff (LES)
Knowledge of the Dutch language is considered an advantage, but not a requirement.
A background check and certificate of good conduct may be required.

How to apply?

Send your application, consisting of a CV and accompanying motivation letter and possible references to arno.kooij@minbuza.nl (you may also use this email address for further inquiries). 

Applications deadline: Friday 17 July 2026 

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Diversity and Inclusion
The Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs pursues an active diversity policy and is committed to an inclusive organization. We do this by optimally deploying and utilizing people's differences. And by creating a work culture where everyone can be themselves and feel valued. When composing teams and hiring new talent, we strive for diversity in, among other things, age, gender (identity), culture, religion, background, orientation, (occupational) disability, knowledge and competencies.