Melanie Ferrandino
Wollongong,NSW
Summary
Seasoned APS6 Security Adviser with over 5 years in Physical Security Management, specializing in protective security, assessments, stakeholder engagement, risk management, and governance. Led security operations, developed procedures, and delivered strategic advice in complex settings. Cultivated strong relationships with stakeholders to achieve practical, risk-based security outcomes.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
APS6 Security Adviser - Capability
ATO Wollongong
01.2025 - Current
- - Drive innovative security initiatives and technology enhancements to strengthen the ATO's physical security capability.
- - Research, trial and implement contemporary security solutions, ensuring security controls remain effective and aligned with organizational requirements.
- - Managed smartphone-based duress technology and vendor contracts, enhancing staff safety and operational effectiveness.
- - Led the redesign and implementation of Building Pass, Building Access and Access Authority request forms within the People Connect platform, ensuring compliance with PSPF requirements and supporting the transition from the decommissioned Microsoft InfoPath system.
- - Reviewed and redesigned Security Monitoring Centre site instructions, streamlining alarm response procedures and optimizing operational costs.
- - Developed and implemented process for managing unarmed secure areas, mitigating risks to protected information and reinforcing security compliance.
APS6 Security Adviser – Team Leader
ATO Wollongong
09.2022 - 01.2025
- - Led a team of seven Security Advisers within the Physical Security Operations Centre, overseeing site access management, alarm monitoring and CCTV operations across ATO facilities.
- - Managed security incidents, ensuring effective triage, escalation, and response processes to mitigate risks.
- - Provided security risk management advice and solutions to internal stakeholders, supporting operational and business outcomes.
- - Developed and maintained operational procedures that enhanced safeguarding of personnel, facilities, and physical resources.
- - Designed and implemented a triage process for recurring inappropriate client behaviour incidents, improving stakeholder visibility and supporting timely investigation and resolution.
- - Facilitated development of access management arrangements for Traralgon site transition, establishing processes for ASIC and ATO personnel, visitor access, and contractor security.
APS5 Security Adviser - Security Trainer and Support
ATO Wollongong
03.2021 - Current
- - Provided security advice and operational support on physical security matters, helping protect ATO personnel, assets and information.
- - Managed the initial triage and coordination of security incidents, ensuring timely escalation and resolution.
- - Trained and mentored new Security Advisers to enhance team capability and ensure consistent delivery of physical security operations.
- - Led migration of Secure Area PINs across ATO sites to Gallagher security platform, ensuring business continuity and compliance during transition.
- - Produced security reports and analysis on access control, swipe data, and secure area access to enhance operational decision-making.
- - Administered building access, secure area PINs and security permissions in accordance with PSPF requirements.
APS3 Workplace Service officer
ATO Wollongong
05.2020 - 03.2021
- - Managed building assets and equipment through monitoring, reporting and adherence to workplace services procedures.
- - Supported the day-to-day operation of ATO facilities, maintaining a safe, secure and professional workplace environment.
- - Cultivated partnerships with contractors, service providers, and internal stakeholders to enhance collaboration in facility operations.
- - Implemented COVID-19 safety measures, including signage and compliance monitoring, facilitating a safe return-to-work environment.
- - Completed the Wollongong site rekey project, including the maintenance of key registers, secure storage arrangements and key distribution processes.
- - Reviewed and updated container custodian records and nominee databases, ensuring accuracy and accountability in site security registers.
Service officer
Services Australia – Centrelink Wollongong
12.2015 - 05.2020
- - Delivered customer service and payment support across a broad range of welfare and assistance programmes, managing complex enquiries and eligibility assessments.
- - Processed JobSeeker and supplementary payment claims, ensuring compliance with legislative and policy requirements.
- - Collaborated with social workers and support services to secure appropriate outcomes for vulnerable customers.
- - Supported delivery of Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment services post-natural disasters, facilitating access to financial support for affected communities.
- - Assisted Australian Electoral Commission during enquiry surges in Federal Elections, providing accurate information on voting requirements and legislative obligations.
Education
Bachelor of Commerce - Human Resource Management & International Business
University of Wollongong
01-2004
Skills
- Security Risk Management
- Security Compliance
- PSPF expertise
- Physical Security Assessments
- Incident Management
- Security technology integration
- Security data analysis
- Reporting & Analysis
- Team leadership
- Operational training
- Stakeholder Engagement
Timeline
APS6 Security Adviser - Capability
ATO Wollongong
01.2025 - Current
APS6 Security Adviser – Team Leader
ATO Wollongong
09.2022 - 01.2025
APS5 Security Adviser - Security Trainer and Support
ATO Wollongong
03.2021 - Current
APS3 Workplace Service officer
ATO Wollongong
05.2020 - 03.2021
Service officer
Services Australia – Centrelink Wollongong
12.2015 - 05.2020
Bachelor of Commerce - Human Resource Management & International Business
University of Wollongong