Principal Policy Analyst

Principal Policy Analyst (ECEC)

Are you an organised policy professional? AERO is seeking a talented and driven Principal Policy Analyst with a background in education, ideally early childhood education and care (ECEC), to contribute evidence-based policy advice on a range of complex educational issues.

• Offering a competitive base salary starting at $145, commensurate with skills and experience) plus 12% superannuation
• Full time temporary contract until 30 June 2026
• Remote role, work from home (Australia-wide)

About The Organisation

The Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) is Australia's national education evidence body. AERO is working towards excellent and equitable outcomes for all children and young people by generating and making high-quality evidence accessible and enhancing the use of evidence in Australian education.

AERO is bringing together people who are passionate about evidence-informed policy and practice for schools and early childhood services. Our team is collegial, creative and committed to fulfilling AERO's potential to make an impact. We value agile thinkers who can help shape AERO as a new, dynamic organisation, and team players who enjoy working across projects and in diverse, interdisciplinary teams. Many of our people have ongoing connections to research, policy and practice organisations, helping us to bridge the gap between evidence generation and translation.

For more information about AERO, please see

Purpose of the role

The role leads and oversees complex policy analysis initiatives to support policymakers and key stakeholders in effectively using evidence.

Through strategic leadership, rigorous analysis and product development, and high-level collaboration, this role drives activities that support informed decision-making and systemic improvement with the education sector, leveraging direct partnerships and policy influence mechanisms to achieve significant and sustainable outcomes.

Accountabilities:

• Lead the scoping, planning and designing of advanced policy research and analysis, including investigating and critically analysing issues and opportunities relating to education
• Develop and implement strategies to maximise the influence of AERO's research on system programs and policies
• Lead and manage the provision high quality policy advice on a wide variety of issues in education, including early childhood, schools, child and student outcomes, and evidence use in practice.
• Lead the preparation of advice and recommendations to internal and external stakeholders that convey complex concepts and information on education topics in an appropriate format and manner.
• Manage team members, including recruitment, performance development and goal setting, to ensure deliverables are on time and to a high standard.
• Lead and manage projects, including contract management, establishing and managing priorities, deliverables, timelines, budgets and reporting where required.
• Advise and support other AERO teams as required, including establishing and maintaining strong relationships with others, with a particular focus on ensuring effective incorporation of AERO's strategic policy agenda in their work.
• Lead the performance and professional development of team members, building a highly productive and collaborative team.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Essential requirements:

• Tertiary qualifications field and/or extensive experience in public policy, public administration, education, education policy and/or education management.

Desirable knowledge and experience:

Policy Expertise: Deep understanding of Australian education policy frameworks and governance, gained through government, policy, or leadership roles in schools or services.

Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to build and maintain productive relationships with policymakers, Government and industry practitioners, and researchers.

Project Delivery: Proven experience managing projects and delivering high-quality outcomes on time.

Communication: Exceptional oral and written skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives for diverse audiences.

Leadership: Strong people management skills, fostering trust, collaboration, and leveraging individual strengths.

Analytical Thinking: Highly developed conceptual and analytical skills, translating complex information into clear, actionable insights.

AERO welcomes applicants who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

How to apply?

Please submit an online application:

CV and a Cover Letter describing your interest in and suitability for the role addressing the skills and experience above.

Applications close

11.59pm Sunday 14 December 2025 (Sydney, AEDT).

Please apply at your earliest convenience as we will be reviving applications as they are submitted.

Notes

Respectfully, no agencies please.

Please only apply for this role if you are an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or have unrestricted work rights in Australia.

Appointments are subject to a National Criminal Record Check (NCRC) and having or obtaining a current valid working with children check (WWCC).

If you require any additional information to above or have technical difficulties applying, please contact:

Please do not send applications to this email address, apply through advert.