Policy Advisor - Office of Thomas Emerson MLA

• From $84,284 (FTE) + super + allowances

Independent Member for Kurrajong, Thomas Emerson MLA, is seeking a motivated and progressively-minded policy adviser to backfill a position in his team in a part-time role on a six-month contract.

Experience in a parliamentary or policy environment is a must, as is a keen interest in ACT politics and the independent movement. An understanding of legislation and law-making processes would be highly regarded.

Why work with us?

Politics across the country is being transformed by independent representatives who are holding their governments to account on matters of transparency, integrity and accountability. 

In 2024, Canberrans brought this transformative change to local politics through the election of independents to the ACT Legislative Assembly for the first time in a quarter of a century.

Are you passionate about achieving better outcomes for our community? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment working in a small, agile team where you can influence parliamentarians to help shape the future of the ACT? Do you want to see politics done differently with more community involvement and ambitious evidenced-based policies? If so, this job may be for you.

Position available

• Adviser Level 1, part-time, 6-month position until mid-February 2027, based in Canberra.

The successful candidate will be required to work from the ACT Legislative Assembly office, and to attend occasional meetings off-site.  

On top of a base FTE-salary from $84,284 plus super, this role may include an additional 7 per cent LAMS Allowance to cover occasional overtime work. Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) at a 1:1 ratio is also available to support a healthy work-life balance.

For more information, see the enterprise agreement here.

Who we’re looking for

We are looking for someone with policy or research experience. This position will suit a proactive, and highly organised individual capable of managing diverse workloads, and working collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will bring passion, professionalism and a can-do attitude. 

Whether you’re a student or a professional seeking work in a part-time capacity, an early-career policy officer looking for a unique opportunity, or an experienced worker eager to make a local contribution, this role may be for you.

Responsibilities

• Policy Development and Analysis: Research, analyse, and formulate policy advice on a wide range of issues. 
• Constituent Casework: Respond promptly and effectively to inquiries from constituents including by investigating issues, researching solutions, liaising with relevant officials and other Members’ offices, and advocating on behalf of constituents.
• Stakeholder Management: Establish and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders.
• Legislative Scrutiny: Critically review proposed legislation and provide strategic advice.
• Committee Work: Prepare Thomas for committee meetings and inquiries by researching relevant information and assisting with question preparation.
• Parliamentary Processes: Maintain a comprehensive understanding of parliamentary procedures and processes to ensure effective participation in parliamentary activities.
• Strategic Management: Assist with the overall management of the office, ensuring the team operates efficiently, effectively and collaboratively in a positive working environment.

Selection criteria

• Demonstrable experience relevant to the responsibilities as outlined.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong organisational, time management and creative problem-solving abilities.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Political acumen and understanding of the local political landscape.
• Advanced computer literacy and ability to learn new systems quickly, including in Google Workspace, Asana, VoterID and Outlook.  

The role will also require:

• The ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• A high degree of discretion and judgement.
• A capacity to work well under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• A firm commitment to professional development and continued learning.

Team culture

Thomas actively promotes a productive, healthy, inclusive working environment where people are supported to grow personally and professionally, and to be their best selves both inside and outside of the office.

How to apply

To submit your application, please click 'Apply Now'.

Please include a CV, listing your current and most recent previous managers as referees, and a one-page pitch. We will seek your permission before reaching out to your referees. Your pitch should explain your motivations for applying for the role and your experience, addressing each of the selection criteria.

Please direct any queries about this role to the Chief of Staff, Hannah Hughes, on (02) 6205 1475 or Hannah.Hughes@parliament.act.gov.au using the subject line: Policy Advisor - Office of Thomas Emerson MLA enquiry via EthicalJobs.