McArthur is seeking an experienced APS6 Senior Policy Officer to support a high-profile Australian Government policy and strategy initiative.

This is a hands-on policy role suited to an experienced Commonwealth skilled who can quickly understand complex subject matter, undertake research and analysis, develop high-quality written advice and work confidently with senior and external stakeholders.

This is not a general administration or purely project management position . We are particularly interested in candidates with demonstrated APS6-level policy development and government writing experience.

The opportunity

- Canberra-based Australian Government assignment
- Initial contract from 1 October 2026 to 31 March 2027
- Potential extension of up to 3 months
- Up to 37.5 hours per week
- Flexible/hybrid working arrangements may be considered
- $63.73-$71.59 per hour + super , dependent on relevant experience and APS6 salary equivalent
- Current Baseline security clearance required

Key responsibilities

You will contribute to the development and delivery of a nationally significant government strategy, including:

- Undertaking policy research, analysis and development
- Drafting and contributing to policy and strategy documents
- Preparing high-quality departmental and ministerial briefs, papers, correspondence and other executive material
- Analysing complex information and translating findings into clear advice, options and recommendations
- Supporting engagement with Commonwealth agencies, industry, community and other external stakeholders
- Providing secretariat support to working groups and interdepartmental meetings
- Coordinating stakeholder information, consultation activities and associated records




- Monitoring project milestones, timelines, actions and deliverables
- Contributing to project reporting and quality assurance
- Assisting with stakeholder communications and written content where required

About you

To be competitive for this opportunity, you will have demonstrated experience operating at APS6 level or equivalent within the Australian Government , ideally in a policy, strategy or closely related role.

We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate:

- Strong Commonwealth Government policy development and policy analysis experience
- Excellent written communication and the ability to prepare ministerial briefs, executive briefs, correspondence, submissions or similar government material
- Strong research, critical thinking and analytical capability
- Experience providing clear policy advice, options and recommendations
- Demonstrated stakeholder engagement across government and/or external organisations
- Experience supporting interdepartmental committees, working groups or other governance forums
- Strong organisation skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and tight deadlines
- Sound understanding of Commonwealth Government processes and expectations
- The ability to work independently with limited supervision at APS6 level

Experience in national strategy development, agriculture, food systems, regional policy, industry policy, health, environment, social policy or other complex cross-government policy areas would be advantageous but is not essential.

Security requirement

Applicants must hold a current Baseline security clearance .

McArthur encourages applications from suitably experienced professionals who meet the requirements of the position.

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📌 Senior Policy Officer - Federal Government (Canberra)
🏢 Mcarthur
📍 Canberra