Policy Advisor Waste Management

Full-Time

Total Package $111,607.71 per annum (inclusive of superannuation)

Do you have a passion for waste management and want to see tangible outcomes from your work?

At WALGA, the work you do as Policy Advisor Waste Management will help shape the future of waste management policy across Western Australia. You’ll be part of a team working to support Local Governments in delivering better outcomes for their communities.

Our Environment and Waste Team is at the forefront of policy development and advocacy on issues like waste management, climate change, water, biosecurity and biodiversity.

In this role, you’ll undertake research and analysis, develop policy positions, represent the sector on key committees and coordinate events and workshops that engage and inform. Some of the areas of activity include the Bin Tagging Program and developing better practice guidance for the sector.

What could your week look like?

No two weeks are the same in this dynamic role. One day, you might be consulting with Local Governments on new waste strategies or preparing a submission on national waste legislation. The next, you could be coordinating a sector-wide workshop on circular economy initiatives or advocating for new funding opportunities to support local waste management projects.

You’ll be researching and analysing policy, preparing reports and submissions, and representing WALGA and Local Government interests at State and Federal levels. You’ll also help deliver grant-funded programs and support Local Governments in accessing funding for waste and environmental initiatives.

This role offers a unique blend of policy development, stakeholder engagement and hands-on coordination.

Let's talk about you!

You’re passionate about waste management and you are ready to use your skills to support Local Governments across WA.

You’ll bring:

• Research, analytical and policy development skills

• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication abilities

• A good understanding of Local, State and Federal Government structures and relevant legislation

• Some experience in project coordination and event planning

• The ability to identify emerging issues and develop innovative solutions

• Tertiary qualifications in an environment or waste-related field.

We value candidates with experience in Local Government, the public sector, or a member-based organisations, as this background can provide valuable insight into our work. Familiarity with grant funding processes is also highly regarded.

Why you’ll love working here

In addition to this rare career opportunity, you’ll also get 6 weeks’ (30 days) annual leave and an extra day to celebrate your work anniversary every year. We understand that everyone has a life outside of work, so we provide our employees with flexible working options too.

We pride ourselves on offering a safe and inclusive culture with fantastic workplace benefits and entitlements. What we are most proud of is getting the chance to work on niche projects, with some incredibly talented people, on issues that matter.

WALGA's HQ in West Leederville is centrally located within easy reach of public transport, bike paths and paid parking options. We also provide excellent end of trip facilities for those arriving by alternate methods of transport. Our Thrive wellbeing program means you’ll get to enjoy regular activities and initiatives (in fact we could be at a healthy mind seminar or a enjoying a fitness initiative whilst you’re reading this.)

We also have an active social club to cater for all interests and are committed to being a Menopause Friendly Australia employer.

Who are we?

The Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) is an independent, member-based, not-for-profit organisation representing and supporting the WA Local Government sector.

Our membership includes all 139 Local Governments in the State. WALGA uses its influence, support and expertise to deliver better outcomes for WA Local Governments and their communities. We do this through effective advocacy to all levels of Government on behalf of our members, and by the provision of expert advice, services and support to Local Governments.

WALGA’s vision is for agile and inclusive Local Governments enhancing community wellbeing and enabling economic prosperity.

To find out more about us, please visit www.walga.asn.au

Apply now

• If you’re keen to talk it through first, please contact our Policy Manager Environment and Waste, Rebecca Brown – [email protected]
• Applications will close 12:00pm Thursday, 17 July 2025. We may commence interviews upon receipt and reserve the right to close the position early.
• To view the position description please visit our careers page.
• WALGA encourages people from different backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and people with disabilities.
• We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all candidates. If you have any specific needs or require accommodations to participate fully in the interview process, please let us know. This could include, but is not limited to, accessibility requirements, assistive technologies, or any other considerations
• Applications via email will not be accepted. As this role is being sourced directly by WALGA, we respectfully request no agencies approach.