Job Description
Exciting opportunity to join the Australian Public Policy Institute (APPI) as a Senior Policy Advisor on a 12-month fixed-term contract with the possibility for renewal, working in close partnership with government and research experts to transform public policy outcomes. This Sydney-based role offers the opportunity to contribute to high-impact policy projects in a fast-paced and evolving organisation.
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ABOUT US
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APPI is a unique joint-venture between government and leading Australian universities to transform public policy. Launched in ****, we work closely with government ministers, departments, and other decision-makers to help address their most pressing policy priorities, harnessing a wide range of expert advice and building strategic policy capabilities. Join our growing team in a high-performing, positive and welcoming organisational culture as we build an enduring Institute for Australia.
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THE ROLE
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The Senior Policy Advisor will play a central role in developing and delivering policy projects and engagements in response to government priorities. Working across a wide range of policy areas, the role will harness the expertise of leading university-based researchers to provide timely, practical and independent advice to senior decision-makers.
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Reporting to the Executive Director, Policy and Projects, this is a wide-ranging role involving structured problem-solving, evidence synthesis and stakeholder engagement. The Senior Policy Advisor will lead components of complex projects, contribute to the Institute's project pipeline and support the delivery of high-quality, influential policy outputs. The role will also contribute to broader organisational priorities, including the Grants and Fellows programs, and help build APPI's systems, approaches and internal capability.
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ABOUT YOU
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APPI is seeking an outstanding policy qualified with a strong track record of delivering high-quality analysis and advice for senior decision-makers. You are an excellent communicator, capable of producing concise, highly structured and persuasive deliverables and confident in engaging with diverse stakeholders. You thrive in a collaborative, high-performing environment.
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With strong analytical and problem-solving skills, you have demonstrated experience in synthesising evidence and framing clear policy narratives. You enjoy working across a range of policy areas and may bring specialist expertise in energy and environmental policy, economic policy, or social policy.



You may also bring technical expertise in data analysis and/or artificial intelligence. With a strong commitment to the public good, you are motivated to contribute to innovative, impactful public policy and to support the professional development of colleagues within the Institute.
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The Australian Public Policy Institute is committed to meaningful equity and diversity and strongly encourages people from a diverse range of backgrounds to apply.
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APPI will consider applications on a rolling basis and may appoint before the application deadline.
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ROLE DESCRIPTION
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I. Deliver high-quality policy insights for governments
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Contribute to the end-to-end delivery of policy projects, including engagement design, expert-informed briefings, analytical reports and workshops.
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Shape and oversee research design, structured problem-solving and evidence-gathering activities to produce clear insights.
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Guide project teams in delivering impactful outputs (briefs, workshops, reports), ensuring consistent quality and alignment with APPI's style guide and voice.
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Lead policy analysis and apply critical judgement to frame advice for senior audiences.
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Lead interviews, roundtables and stakeholder engagements, ensuring outputs reflect understanding of policy context and evidence.
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Ensure that project planning, communication and coordination are effectively managed.
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Contribute to the delivery of the Institute's Grants and Fellows workstreams.
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II. External stakeholder engagement and relationship building
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Build and maintain strong relationships with government and university partners, as well as broader stakeholders.
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Represent the Institute at engagements and events, articulating APPI's value proposition.
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Identify and scope new project opportunities.
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III. Communications
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Work closely with the External Affairs Team to develop and publish outputs across multiple formats, events and channels.
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IV. Capability development and organisational contribution
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Proactively seek opportunities to deepen understanding of decision-making processes within government, universities and other key stakeholders.
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Act as a mentor and coach for Associates, providing clear, constructive feedback and supporting their professional growth.
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Share knowledge and insights with the broader team through structured learning activities or peer learning sessions.
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SELECTION CRITERIA
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Passionate about developing applied public policy insights with real-world impact.
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Minimum two to three years professional experience in a relevant role.
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Strong track record in delivering structured, high-quality and timely advice or analysis for senior decision-makers, ideally in a policy context.
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Demonstrated expertise in synthesising evidence and insights to frame compelling policy narratives.
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Experience in managing and delivering complex projects and proposals, including team coordination and stakeholder engagement.
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Exceptional writing and communication skills, including the ability to summarise complex ideas clearly for senior decision-makers and government audiences.
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Demonstrated experience in leading or facilitating policy engagements, such as Interviews, roundtables or workshops.
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Preferred
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Master's degree in public policy or similar.
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At least four to five years of relevant professional experience in a policy role, preferably working with or in government.
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Demonstrated ability to contribute to project pipeline development and relationship management.
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Experience in developing and improving systems for project or program delivery.
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Specialist expertise in energy and environmental policy, economic policy and/or social policy.
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We would also value technical expertise in data analysis and/or artificial intelligence.
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Personal Qualities
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High levels of professionalism, initiative and accountability.
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Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
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Curious, creative and strategic thinker, able to navigate ambiguity.
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Strong alignment with the values and mission of APPI.
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Committed to building a positive, inclusive and high-performing work environment.
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TERMS
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Full time, 12 month fixed-term contract, with potential for renewal.
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Reports to Executive Director, Policy and Projects.
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Salary range: $100,000 to $130,000 base salary (plus superannuation), depending on experience.
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📌 Senior Policy Advisor (New South Wales)
🏢 Australian Public Policy Institute
📍 New South Wales