Policy Advisor Community

Full-Time

Total Package $115,234.96 per annum (inclusive of superannuation)

(Base salary $102,888.36 + Superannuation $12,346.60)

• Research, develop and advocate on community and social policy issues that matter to WA Local Governments
• Build relationships and drive positive change.
• Enjoy 6 weeks’ annual leave and a wellbeing program that supports you year-round

Located:  

WALGA HQ West Leederville / on the traditional lands of the Whadjuk Noongar people.

Are you passionate about the role Local Government plays in building strong, connected and vibrant communities?

As our Policy Advisor Community, you’ll help shape policy advice, positions and advocate for outcomes that support our Members and the communities they serve.

As part of our Community team, you'll work across a diverse range of social and community issues, helping Local Governments navigate emerging policy and legislative changes. You'll build an understanding of the issues that matter most to our Members, contribute to policy development through a wide range of stakeholder relationships, and help shape advocacy that delivers real outcomes.

This is a role for someone who enjoys tackling complex issues and identifying broader policy connections. Someone who can make sense of an evolving policy and legislative space and translate that understanding into practical, clear advice and effective advocacy. Strong research and writing skills are essential, but just as important is the ability to identify what matters for Local Government and communicate it clearly, confidently and persuasively.

What does a typical week look like?

Typical isn’t a word we use very often to describe the role.

In any given week, you could be researching an emerging issue, talking with Member Local Governments about the challenges they're facing, drafting a policy submission, coordinating a workshop, or representing WALGA in discussions with government and sector stakeholders.

You'll work across a broad range of community issues, helping build the evidence, policy positions and advocacy that support Local Government. Along the way, you'll turn complex information into practical advice, contribute to meaningful projects and help influence outcomes that matter to communities across WA.

It's a role that suits someone who enjoys both the detail and the bigger picture, and who is motivated by the opportunity to make a real impact.

Let's talk about you!

We’re looking for someone who genuinely cares about community outcomes and strives to enable positive change through policy.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Strong research, analytical and conceptual skills, with demonstrated experience contributing to policy development.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to turn complex information into clear, compelling advice, reports and submissions.
• The ability to analyse policy and legislation and understand its implications.
• Excellent stakeholder management and engagement skills, with the confidence to build productive relationships and contribute to consultation.
• An understanding of government structures and decision-making processes, ideally with knowledge of the role and responsibilities of Local Government.
• Strong organisation and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and work to deadlines.

At WALGA we value curiosity, adaptation and a willingness to learn. Experience in the Local Government sector or specific community policy experience while beneficial, is not a deal breaker. We’re interested in the policy experience you bring, particularly your ability to navigate complex, human-centred issues and work within Government structures, legislation and regulatory environments.

Why you’ll love working here

At WALGA, we believe success happens at The Sweet Spot, the place where big picture purpose meets local community impact, with perks that come without the trade‑offs. The Sweet Spot is our employee promise. It reflects what you can expect when you work with us: meaningful work, genuine flexibility, and an environment built on curiosity, collaboration and shared purpose.

Employees have the opportunity to work on unique and meaningful projects that deliver real benefits to Local Government and the communities they serve. We foster a culture of positive risk-taking, guided by one of our strategic pillars Explore, and underpinned by our value of Curiosity.

You’ll enjoy six weeks of annual leave plus an extra day off on the anniversary of when you started, because your journey with us is worth celebrating. Our Thrive wellbeing program runs all year and is designed to support every aspect of wellbeing, including mental, physical and social wellbeing, through education, resources and practical initiatives.

We’re committed to helping you grow, both personally and professionally, and we’re driving a tech roadmap that’s shaping a data-led future. There are plenty of ways to get involved too, with cross-organisational working groups such as Reconciliation, Artificial Intelligence, and Sustainability.

And that’s just the start. You’ll also find an active social club run by employees, end-of-trip facilities, and a centrally located modern office designed for collaboration. We’re also proud to be recently accredited as a Menopause Friendly Australia employer, because creating an inclusive workplace matters to us!