Senior Policy Advisor

ClubsNSW; Sydney; Hybrid; AUD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Modern offices in Sydney CBD

Job summary

ClubsNSW is seeking a policy professional to shape public policy for NSW and national issues from an industry perspective. You will engage directly with members, state club associations and senior decision-makers to carry issues from analysis through advocacy to practical outcomes.

The role requires more than five years in policy, strong writing, and the ability to translate regulatory change into clear guidance while managing competing priorities across a hybrid work environment in Sydney.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of public policy, government decision-making and the legislative process.
• Experience interpreting legislation and regulations, identifying their practical implications and recommending workable changes.
• Sound judgement and analytical skills, with the ability to get across complex issues and develop a clear position.
• An excellent writer who can make a persuasive case and communicate complex issues clearly to different audiences.

Responsibilities

• Track and assess policy, legislative, regulatory and political developments, identifying what they mean for clubs and where action is needed.
• Analyse complex issues and develop clear advice, recommendations and industry positions, communicated through briefings, board papers, submissions and correspondence.
• Build productive relationships with government agencies, regulators, local councils, state club associations and industry bodies, and represent ClubsNSW and Clubs Australia in relevant meetings and forums.
• Translate policy and regulatory change into clear member communications and practical compliance guidance.
• Provide tailored advice to member clubs and support their engagement with regulators, revenue authorities and local councils on complex matters.
• Lead and manage strategic projects, stakeholder initiatives and industry campaigns, using research, data and member insights to strengthen our case.

Skills

Policy analysis

Legislation interpretation

Analytical thinking

Persuasive writing

Ownership & prioritisation

Industry policy experience

Education

Public policy / political science / law / economics degree

Job description

ClubsNSW is the peak body for registered clubs across NSW. We work at the centre of major policy and regulatory issues affecting the sector, engaging directly with government, regulators and industry to secure practical outcomes for clubs and their communities.

We also provide the policy function for Clubs Australia, the national body representing state and territory club associations, advocating on shared priorities and federal issues affecting clubs.

Role Overview

Our policy portfolio spans state and national issues. Key areas include, in NSW, liquor and gaming regulation, registered clubs legislation, state taxation, planning and land use, housing and development, ClubGRANTS, live music, and numerous other operational and compliance matters. Nationally, the focus includes federal taxation and AML/CTF, together with privacy, payment systems, workplace relations, and skills and training.

The role would suit a policy professional from government, an industry association or a similar organisation who is ready to take on broader responsibility and shape public policy from an industry perspective, with direct engagement with members, state club associations and senior decision-makers, and the opportunity to carry issues from analysis through advocacy to practical outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Track and assess policy, legislative, regulatory and political developments, identifying what they mean for clubs and where action is needed.
• Analyse complex issues and develop clear advice, recommendations and industry positions, communicated through briefings, board papers, submissions and correspondence.
• Build productive relationships with government agencies, regulators, local councils, state club associations and industry bodies, and represent ClubsNSW and Clubs Australia in relevant meetings and forums.
• Translate policy and regulatory change into clear member communications and practical compliance guidance.
• Provide tailored advice to member clubs and support their engagement with regulators, revenue authorities and local councils on complex matters.
• Lead and manage strategic projects, stakeholder initiatives and industry campaigns, using research, data and member insights to strengthen our case.

About You

• A strong understanding of public policy, government decision-making and the legislative process.
• Experience interpreting legislation and regulations, identifying their practical implications and recommending workable changes.
• Sound judgement and analytical skills, with the ability to get across complex issues and develop a clear position.
• An excellent writer who can make a persuasive case and communicate complex issues clearly to different audiences.
• The initiative to take ownership of work, manage competing priorities and collaborate effectively across the organisation.
• Experience in an industry or member-based organisation, or a genuine interest in bringing government policy experience into that environment.
• A tertiary qualification in public policy, political science, law, economics or another relevant discipline.
• More than five years’ experience in a policy or related role.

Previous applicants need not apply.

Why Join Us?

• You will join an experienced, collaborative team in an organisation where policy has a direct voice in decision-making. The role will broaden your experience across industry advocacy, executive and board advice, government relations, member engagement and national policy coordination.
• Work directly with members, industry leaders and senior decision-makers.
• Hybrid working arrangements that support work-life balance.
• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• Modern offices in the Sydney CBD, close to Town Hall station.
• A professional and welcoming team environment, complemented by an active staff social committee.

Our Commitment to You

ClubsNSW is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all. As a multicultural organisation, we celebrate and respect individual differences, and we encourage people from all walks of life, regardless of sexuality, gender, gender identity, ability, age, race, religion, or beliefs, to apply. At ClubsNSW, you’ll have a voice and the opportunity to thrive.