Senior Policy Adviser

Senior Policy Adviser – Electorate Officer B​

Senator Jana Stewart

The office of ​Senator Jana Stewart​ is seeking applications for a ​full-time ongoing Senior Policy Adviser, based in the Senator's​ ​Electorate Office in Reservoir, VIC​.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, LGBTIQ+ people and people with a disability are strongly encouraged to apply for this role.

Position Overview

This is a senior role within Senator Stewart's office. You will be responsible for providing high quality advice and support to Senator Stewart, and coordinating the Senator's policy, Parliamentary and committee work to support and implement the mandate of the Federal Albanese Labor Government.

• The successful candidate is compassionate, hardworking and has a human centered policy mind. You have demonstrated experience in policy, research and/or advocacy, are a strong writer and researcher, and enjoy a regular trip to Canberra. You will provide high level, strategic advice, and work in a dynamic environment with significant autonomy.

The key duties of the position include but are not limited to
:

·      Supporting Senator Stewart to conduct her Parliamentary committee work. This includes liaising with ministerial offices, committee secretariats, and other Senate offices; providing detailed briefings on legislation measures and debates; preparing question packs; monitoring Committee processes and briefing the Senator accordingly.

·      Working closely with the team and stakeholders to prepare for Parliament. This includes drafting legislation speeches and other speeches as required; liaising with Whips office, the Prime Minister's Office, and other offices.

·      Developing and maintain professional relationships with Minister's Offices, Committee Secretariats other key stakeholders.

·      Working across the team to ensure issues and key areas of interest to the Senator's constituents – the people of Victoria – are represented through Senator Stewart's policy, media/communications, and community work, as well as at the Federal Government level.

·      Accompanying and represent the Senator at meetings and events, as required.

·      Travel to Canberra, across Victoria and elsewhere may be required.

·      Other duties as required.

The ideal applicant should possess the following skills, qualifications, and experience:

·      Strategic thinking and planning skills.

·      Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.

·      Strong research, speech and report writing skills.

·      Highly motivated, be able to work proactively, independently and in a small team.

·      Ability to work to tight deadlines, plan, organise and prioritise work under pressure.

·      Demonstrated professional integrity and the ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.

·      Demonstrated career experience in a related role.

·      Qualifications in Economics, Politics, Law, Social Science or related field are desirable.

·      An understanding of Australia's system of government. Previous experience in politics including parliamentary processes is desirable but not mandatory.

·      Availability to work flexible hours and travel as required.

Employment conditions:

The position is offered under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act 1984 and conditions are outlined in the Commonwealth Members of Parliament Staff Enterprise Agreement which include:

• A commencing salary between $
  76,910
  and
  $89,793
  will be negotiated depending on experience and relevant skills.
• An additional optional allowance of up to $34,832​ may be considered in recognition of, and as compensation for, reasonable additional hours of work and any travel requirements.
• Relocation assistance, studies assistance and paid study leave may also be available (subject to eligibility requirements).
• An employer superannuation contribution of 15.4% will be payable.

Applicants should note the following:

• An initial probationary period of three months may apply and may be subject to extension.
• The successful applicant may be required to undergo a National Police History Check.
• Staff may be subject to automatic cessation triggers in accordance with Section 14 of the MOP(S) Act.
• The successful applicant will be required to comply with their obligations under the Behaviour Codes and Standards
  .
• For staff employed by a Minister or Parliamentary Secretary either in a personal or electorate staff position, it is a condition of your employment that you obtain and maintain a Negative Vetting 2 security clearance and comply with the Ministerial Staff Code of Conduct.

How to apply

Submit a CV with the names of two referees and a one-page (maximum) cover letter outlining your interest in this position, and demonstrating your skills, capabilities, knowledge and experience.  

Applications must be submitted by 5pm Friday, 26 September 2025 to Applications will not be accepted via Linkedin.