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FOIT Profiles

Name: Nerida Robinson
From: Darwin, NT

Academic Background:
Bachelor of Arts with Honours – University of New England
Diploma of Education – University of New England
Masters of Accounting Studies – Charles Darwin University

First FOIT placement at Treasury:

Financial Management Group - Budget Analysis.

This was an excellent area to gain an insight into the depth and breadth of Treasury activities. I was able to develop my analytical, spreadsheet, and writing skills and to discover many aspects of activities in the Northern Territory I barely knew existed. I was involved in the Budget process through analysis of Budget Cabinet submissions, agency returns, and writing sections for the budget papers.

My second placement was with the Department of the Chief Minister in the Finance section as part of an exchange of graduates. I gained an understanding of the systems within agencies for budgeting, financial management, day to day financial activities and reporting. This was an invaluable experience to gain a greater understanding of how other agencies interact with Treasury as well as how financial data is collected from the agencies.

My third rotation was with the Economic Group in the Public Finance Division. I have since gained a permanent position in this area.

What is your current role in Treasury?

I am now a permanent research officer in Public Finance which is concerned with the financial relationships between the Australian Government and the States. This involves research to determine how the financial needs of the Northern Territory are different from the needs of other States. This research can be to develop arguments to present to the Commonwealth Grants Commission to ensure the Northern Territory receives an appropriate share of GST revenue, to assist in Special Purpose Payment negotiations with the Australian government, or to inform policy making in the Northern Territory.

Why do you like working in Treasury?

My first career was in a completely different field, and it was a big change to study accounting and develop a new career path. The Treasury FOIT program offered me opportunities to experience different aspects of my new field and to clarify where my interests lay. The FOIT program also offered explicit training not only on the activities of Treasury, but also on the systems in place in the Northern Territory Public Service as a whole. Treasury seems to genuinely value its “FOITS” and many people who are now in senior positions began as FOITS.

I enjoy working in Treasury for the work itself and for the working environment. The work is intellectually challenging, relevant to the future of the NT, and surprisingly diverse. The people in Treasury are mainly focused, motivated, and friendly, while the culture is supportive of professional development.