Principal Advisor Industrial and Employee Relations

About the Role

The Principal Advisor, Industrial & Employee Relations is the Association’s senior specialist in industrial and employee relations, providing expert advice on complex employee matters, industrial instruments and employment legislation.

The role leads complex and high-risk case management, workplace investigations, union matters, consultation and industrial relations advice. Where required, the role may represent the Association in external industrial forums.

A key focus is building leadership capability through coaching, training and practical guidance, while also providing technical support and mentoring to HR colleagues.

This is a specialist role rather than a generalist HR position and is fully office-based, with self-managed visits to the Associations hubs.

About You

You are an experienced industrial and employee relations professional with strong knowledge of employment legislation, Awards and industrial instruments. You are confident managing complex and sensitive matters, providing sound advice and navigating risk.

You are also a trusted advisor and capable coach who can build leader capability, influence stakeholders and provide practical solutions.

We're looking for someone with:

  • Significant experience in employee and industrial relations
  • Strong experience managing complex ER casework and workplace investigations
  • Sound knowledge of employment legislation, Awards and industrial instruments
  • Experience with unions, consultation and dispute resolution
  • Experience representing or supporting matters involving external industrial bodies (desirable)
  • Strong coaching, communication and stakeholder management skills
  • Ability to identify and manage risk and provide practical, commercially sound advice

To join our team you will be required to complete mandatory clearances including a National Police Clearance.

Benefits
There are many benefits to working at the Association. Here are just a few:

  • Collaboration: Work in a collaborative team where everyone's ideas are valued, and success is achieved together
  • Positive Impact: Your role will help individuals live their best, most fulfilling life
  • Financial Benefits: Save on everyday expenses with unique access to discounts with Westpac, Medibank, and other major brands and retailers
  • Salary Packaging: Up to $15,900 per annum + up to $2,650 for meals and entertainment. Salary packaging allows you to pay for your expenses with money from your salary before tax is taken out. Pay less tax, and your take home pay increases
  • Fitness Passport: Heavily discounted access to multiple gyms, group fitness and aquatic facilities across Perth metropolitan area. 

Apply Now

To apply, click “Apply Now” below to upload your resume and cover letter. Applications close 31 August 2026, please apply as soon as possible as shortlisting will commence prior to this date.

About Us

The Autism Association is one of Australia’s largest for-purpose specialist Autism providers, offering a range of services to individuals of all ages. We are inspired every day to make a difference in the lives of

people with Autism and are deeply committed to assisting them to achieve the life and opportunities they choose.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to upholding our values on equity, diversity and inclusion in our recruitment and workplace culture – a place where everyone feels valued, heard and supported. We strive to make our roles and workplace accessible to people with disability and culturally appropriate to individuals of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait background.

The Autism Association of WA is a Child Safe Organisation and is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children.

No agency referrals will be accepted at this time.

When applying for any Vacancies / Jobs please use: Internet Explorer 9 and above, Firefox, Chrome, Safari or Opera.
Please do not use Internet Explorer 8 or earlier versions.