Applications are invited for the ongoing full-time role of Policy Officer in the Office of Helen Haines MP. This role can be based in Wangaratta, VIC or Canberra, ACT.

You will work as a key part of a close-knit team to maximise the MP’s effectiveness in representing the interests of her constituents, including improving integrity in politics, addressing the regional housing crisis, achieving meaningful action on climate change and securing better healthcare services to regional Australia.

This is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated early or mid-career policy specialist or consultant with a passion for public policy. This role will support the MP in all aspects of her policy agenda.

Key duties of this role involve, but are not limited to:

• Research and develop policy positions on local and national topics including problem identification, research, stakeholder consultation, idea generation and recommendations.
• Prepare policy statements, policy briefings, speeches, submissions, position statements and correspondence.
• Consult with constituent, community, corporate and government stakeholders to understand the impact of emerging issues and co-design policy responses on key topics, including private members bills and amendments to Government bills.
• Contribute to media statements, responses and social media.
• Provide advice to constituent officers on policy issues.
• Regular travel to Canberra for parliamentary sitting periods will be required.
• All other responsibilities as lawfully directed by the Chief of Staff and MP.

The ideal applicant should possess the following skills and experience:

• Tertiary qualifications in a relevant field, such as law, economics, social sciences, public policy or politics.
• Experience in working with legislation, law reform, consultancy or policy.
• Comprehensive understanding of the Australian political system, parliamentary processes and current political issues.
• Ability to think both strategically and tactically to achieve the ideal outcome.
• Attention to detail with highly developed research, analysis, verbal and written communication skills.
• Outstanding time management, administration, prioritisation and organisational skills
• A team player with the ability to work cooperatively in a close, collaborative environment.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain diverse relationships with stakeholders to produce ‘win win’ outcomes.
• A passion for the future of Indi and the value of the community-driven independent representation.

The full responsibilities and selection criteria are set out in greater details in the Position Description.

This position is offered under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act 1984 and conditions are outlined in the Commonwealth Members of Parliament Staff Enterprise Agreement 2020-2023, which include:

• A commencing salary between $71,245 to $83,179 will be negotiated depending on experience and relevant skills.
• An additional optional allowance of up to $17,208 may be considered in recognition of, and as compensation for reasonable additional hours.
• Employer superannuation contribution of 15.4%.

An initial probationary period of three months is applicable and may be subject to extension.

The successful applicant will be required to undergo a National Police History Check.

The successful applicant will be required to comply with the relevant Draft Behaviour Standards and Code endorsed by both Houses of Parliament.

To apply

Applications should include:

• A resume
• A 1-2 page cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria in the Position Description
• Contact details of two referees.

Applications may also be submitted using the “Apply Now” function in this advertisement.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to complete an interview and written exercise.

For further information please contact Chief of Staff Sally Whyte on [email protected] using the subject line: Policy Officer (EOB) - Wangaratta / Canberra enquiry via EthicalJobs or phone 03 5721 7077.

A copy of the position description is attached.