Policy and Business Analyst

Policy and Business Analyst - Barton Deakin role at Burson. Burson is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. The firm helps brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. Burson is part of WPP and operates with a global community of lifelong learners focused on innovation. This is a unique entry level opportunity to gain hands on experience in Australian politics, public policy, and government relations, working closely with senior consultants in a fast paced, highly collaborative environment focused on political strategy and advocacy. Open to full time or part time arrangements within Australia, across Sydney, Canberra, Victoria, Brisbane, or Perth.

Learn more:

• Track government policy, programs, announcements, and stakeholder issues
• Monitor political and media landscapes to identify relevant trends and insights
• Contribute to stakeholder engagement projects and maintain up to date intelligence for clients
• Draft political briefs, research summaries, and submissions for internal and external audiences
• Assist with high quality written outputs including Barton Deakin Briefs and client presentations
• Support digital content updates and maintain regulatory records (e.g. lobbyist registers)
• Assist with meeting preparation, note taking, calendar coordination, and formatting of key materials
• Collaborate with consultants on research and deliverables across portfolios
• Maintain internal systems, databases, and digital assets to ensure seamless operations
• Support event planning, networking activity, and development of new business materials
• Conduct competitor and market research to contribute to commercial insights
• Help deliver internal initiatives that support team development and company growth
• Manage workload proactively and meet deadlines with attention to detail
• Contribute to team learning through training, shared resources, and knowledge exchange
• Stay engaged with current affairs and demonstrate a proactive, solutions focused mindset

• A demonstrated interest in Australian politics, public policy, or government through previous internships, volunteering, student politics, or research projects
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft clear, concise briefings and summaries
• Analytical thinking and attention to detail when conducting research or interpreting policy developments
• Experience managing competing priorities in a fast paced or deadline driven environment
• Familiarity with digital platforms and tools for research, communication, or engagement (e.g. social media, Microsoft Office, AI tools or media monitoring software)
• A proactive attitude, strong organisational skills, and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team

Our vision is for Burson to be the leading academy for creative communications professionals and emerging leaders. We provide a dynamic environment where ambitious colleagues elevate their skills, expand their networks, and produce the best solutions for today's leading brands. We invest in our people with professional development opportunities, mentorship programs, and a collaborative, inclusive culture. We hire talented people of all backgrounds and identities to drive innovation and creativity for our clients.

We operate with a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Salary: A$75, A$90,000.00
Seniority level: Internship
Employment type: Full-time