Public Policy Manager

About us

The vision of the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) is to see Christian principles and ethics influencing the way we are governed, do business, and relate to each other as a community.  ACL seeks a compassionate, just and moral society through having the values of the Christian faith reflected in the character and political life of the nation.

With over 250,000 supporters Australia-wide, ACL facilitates professional engagement and dialogue between the Christian constituency and government, allowing the voice of Christians to be heard in the public square. ACL is neither party-partisan nor denominationally aligned. ACL representatives bring a Christian perspective to policy in Federal, State and Territory Parliaments.

Position Overview

At ACL, we are committed to shaping public policy with values that benefit all Australians. Our work is important, urgent and strategic, with the Public Policy Manager playing a crucial role. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the Public Policy Manager will lead our national policy development and strategy, manage the policy team, and equip the CEO and State Directors to advance our policy objectives across Australia.

We are seeking an experienced Christian professional with a proven ability to influence public policy, a deep understanding of the major issues facing our nation, and the capacity to articulate a clear, compelling Christian perspective on those issues. The successful candidate will have the ability to think strategically, while also possessing a thorough understanding of Australia’s political system. This is a rare opportunity to lead policy initiatives that can make a lasting difference to our nation. If you have the conviction, experience and skills to help shape our public policy from a Christian perspective, we would love to hear from you. If you believe this role is appropriate for your skillset and background, you just might be the one we are looking for, and we would ask you to apply. 

Key Responsibilities

Policy Strategy:

Under the guidance of the CEO and COO, the Public Policy Manager will develop ACL’s overarching policy strategy across all ACL’s key policy areas including abortion, voluntary assisted dying, religious freedom, gender ideology among others. 

Policy Advise and Direction:

The Public Policy Manager will be responsible for providing the CEO, Director Federal Politics and State Directors policy advise. This will include advice on policy positions for parliamentary consultations, campaigns and political engagements.

Policy Briefs:

The Public Policy Manager will be responsible for ensuring that the organisation has the necessary up-to-date policy briefs, including but not limited to parliamentary submissions, policy briefs for politicians meetings and fact sheets. These briefs demand rigorous research and clear, audience-appropriate communication, shaped throughout by an uncompromised Biblical worldview.

Leadership:

The Public Policy Manager will be responsible for providing leadership and management of ACL’s policy team, as well as collaborating with other leaders within the organisation to ensure the achievement of the organisation’s objectives. 

Public Representation:

The Public Policy Manager may be required to represent ACL at Parliamentary hearings, meetings with politicians, government organisations, conferences and other important public representations as mandated.

Situational Awareness:

The Public Policy Manager will be required to stay informed and updated on political and policy happenings in areas of politics and public policy that relates to ACL’s advocacy. 

Qualifications & Experience

• Professional qualifications in law, public policy or another relevant discipline, or equivalent professional experience.
• Legal, policy and/or research experience is essential.
• Experience in or understanding of Australian politics and public policy development is essential.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement is essential.

Skills

• Demonstrated leadership ability, with the capacity to manage a team positively to achieve visionary outcomes.
• Demonstrated ability to create policy positions that shape political campaigns. 
• Strong analytical and research skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including the dynamic ability to modify communication in a way that suits different audiences.
• Very strong interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and offer policy solutions aligned with a biblical worldview.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and manage competing priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and basic SharePoint or library research tools.

Values:

• Theologically aligned to the Nicene Creed, demonstrated strong Christian faith and character.
• Active member of your Christian Church.
• Good understanding of, and commitment to, ACL’s vision.
• Commitment to ACL’s values of compassion, courage and conviction.
• A ‘can do’ attitude.

To apply, click Apply Now above and submit your CV and cover letter by 9:00 am on Monday 31st August 2026. The covering letter should explain how your skills and experience align with the role in no more than 500 words.