policy & stakeholder relations manager - sydney, nsw (hybrid)

Why Join Us?
The Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) stands as the leading body for architectural professionals in Australia, representing over 14,000 members who share our mission to elevate the built environment through sustainable and responsible design. Our dedication to flexibility and inclusivity is driven by our values and progressive culture. Join a national team that is shaping the future of the built environment, with the support of a collaborative leadership team.

About The Role
This is a senior role where your policy expertise, stakeholder diplomacy, and consensus-building skills will directly shape the positions that define the architectural profession's voice on critical built environment issues. You'll lead the development of a unified national policy agenda that reflects the priorities of our members across Australia. In this strategic role, you'll influence public policy, build strong stakeholder relationships, and amplify the voice of the architectural profession at all levels of government.

This role can be based Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane.

What You'll Do

• Drive Policy Leadership – Lead policy development and research on critical built environment issues affecting the profession.
• Engage and Influence Stakeholders – Build strategic alliances with peak bodies and industry associations on joint advocacy initiatives to strengthen the Institute's advocacy impact.
• Translate Industry Issues into Action – Turn complex architectural and built environment issues into clear, evidence-based policy positions and narratives that resonate with stakeholders.
• Lead Research and Policy Development – Develop high-quality policy submissions, and participate in government inquiries and regulatory consultations, ensuring member insights are reflected in all outputs.
• Foster a Collaborative Policy Culture – Coordinate member consultation processes and build consensus across jurisdictions to align national and local priorities. Coach and guide colleagues in policy initiatives, monitor advocacy outcomes, and report on impact.

What You'll Bring

• Policy & Advocacy Expertise – Minimum 5–8 years' experience in policy development, advocacy, or government relations, with a with a strong record of influencing government outcomes.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Demonstrated ability to build consensus, manage key relationships, and work effectively across diverse groups and teams
• Communication Skills – Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience producing high-quality policy submissions, briefing papers, and reports.
• Leadership & Collaboration – Proven ability to lead teams, collaborate across departments, and coach others in policy and advocacy activities within a member-based organisation.
• Education & Qualifications – Bachelor's degree in public policy, law, political science, business, or related field; experience in the architecture or built environment sector is an advantage

Why Work With Us?

• Be part of a national team shaping the future of the built environment.
• Enjoy work-life balance with flexible working arrangements.
• Thrive in an inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking workplace that values diversity and innovation.

This role offers the platform to influence policy outcomes that matter to the architectural profession and Australia's built environment. You'll coordinate national approaches to complex issues, build strategic partnerships that enhance advocacy effectiveness, and create the unified voice that amplifies member interests in government and industry forums.

Next Steps
Bring your strategic mindset, advocacy experience, and passion for public policy to a role that makes a real difference.

Ready to make an impact?
Apply today via SEEK

The Australian Institute of Architects is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.