Principal Policy Advisor Economic Development

Full-Time, 12 Month Maximum Term Contract, Parental Leave Cover

Total Package $143,791.73 per annum (inclusive of superannuation)

Secondment opportunity available

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

At WALGA, the work you do as the Principal Policy Advisor Economic Development will focus on solving real problems that result in better outcomes for Local Governments and the communities they serve.

Our Economics Team is central to delivering on WALGA’s vision for agile and inclusive Local Governments that enhance community wellbeing and enable economic prosperity. This role is pivotal to WALGA’s Policy and Advocacy aspirations and is therefore highly valued and visible across the organisation.

Lots of roles promise variety in their work, but there aren’t many policy positions where you’ll get to own the process from inception to advocacy.

What do we mean by that?

When a challenge is presented, you’ll take the initiative to find creative and innovative solutions, by undertaking consultation, researching best practice or analysing data. You’ll work with Member Councils, Government Agencies and other WALGA experts to develop policy positions, and advocate for their adoption by State and Federal Governments.

So, you’ll be involved in every step in the process - far from just a cog in the wheel.

What does a typical week look like?

The range of issues that the team deals with are vast, from housing to infrastructure, tourism, transition to renewable energy or community services. As well as developing policy, you could be contributing to key WALGA publications or communications, for example, the WALGA Economic Briefing for our Member Councils, State Budget Submission or State or Federal Budget analysis.

Throughout the year you will represent WALGA at forums or committees and always be there to provide support and advice to our 139 Member Councils with opportunities to travel around Western Australia to work on issues that impact our regions as well as our metropolitan members.

Enough about us. Let’s talk about you.

If you’re naturally curious and really want to be part of policy development that leads to real change, this could be the right role for you.

You enjoy interacting with a diverse range of stakeholders and excel in consulting with external parties and you also take pride in presenting your work internally. Like us, you find satisfaction in using research to develop evidence-based policy solutions and have a solid understanding of economic principles and issues specific to the Western Australian economy.

Your outstanding written, analytical and conceptual skills, including an ability to structure problems, and analyse policy and legislation, will make you an impactful advocate for WALGA’s Members.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to gain invaluable experience in Economic Development, work with an organisation and policy team that make meaningful change and have a unique chance to see the real-world impact of your work.

Why you’ll love working here

In addition to 6 weeks’ (30 days) annual leave and a suite of flexible working options, our West Leederville office 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 lunch and learn or a healthy mind class whilst you’re reading this.)

We pride ourselves on offering a safe and inclusive culture with fantastic workplace benefits and entitlements, including setting budget aside for professional development. What we are most proud of is getting the chance to work on niche and interesting projects, with some incredibly talented people, on issues that matter. We also have an active social club to cater for all interests, and if that doesn’t give you enough of a feel for our vibe, we can offer you book club, trivia nights and we’re committed to being a Menopause Friendly Australia employer.

So, when we say we look after our people and each other, we mean it.

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

• Roles like this don’t come along often, so if this sounds like the role you have been looking for, please apply. If you’re keen to talk it through first, please contact our Manager Economics, Daniel Thomson on (08) 9213 2015
• Applications will close 12:00pm Tuesday, 22 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 https://walga.asn.au/who-we-are/work-at-walga
• 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