The Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) is the national body representing planning professionals across the country. Our mission is to inspire planners and elevate their role in shaping Australia’s future. We champion the value of planning through strong advocacy, contemporary education, and thought leadership.

We are seeking a Senior Policy Officer to play a pivotal role in advancing PIA’s policy and advocacy agenda. This dual-focused role contributes to both national advocacy priorities and the policy and advocacy work within our Victorian Division. Typically, you’ll spend three days per week on Victorian state issues and two days per week on national priorities. Some after-hours meetings and occasional travel will be required.

The role is initially offered as 12-month fixed term contract.

Key Responsibilities

Lead research and writing on policy issues affecting planners and communities, including briefs, submissions, articles, op-eds, and reports.

Support PIA’s advocacy campaigns at both the national and state levels, including implementation of our National Advocacy Priorities.

Advise and brief senior PIA staff on emerging policy issues and strategic advocacy opportunities (including the Head of Advocacy and Public Affairs and the Victorian State Manager).

Track legislative and policy developments at state and federal levels, identifying their implications for the planning profession.

Coordinate working groups and volunteer committees and provide secretariat support where required.

Represent PIA at external meetings with government officials, stakeholders, and industry leaders.

Facilitate knowledge exchange by drawing on best practice across jurisdictions and adapting insights to the Victorian and Australian context.

Build and maintain networks across government, academia, and industry to support evidence-based policy work and thought leadership.

Skills and Experience

A strong understanding of government and public policy processes, ideally in Victoria and at the national level.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex issues into clear and compelling narratives.

Confidence working with senior stakeholders, including policymakers, planners, and industry leaders.

Excellent research and analytical skills, with a talent for distilling insights into practical, evidence-based recommendations.

Experience working in or with the urban planning sector is highly desirable.

Proven ability to manage projects and coordinate diverse teams, including volunteers and working groups.

Benefits

Working at PIA means joining a team committed to impact, professionalism, and public purpose.

Working for PIA includes some great benefits, including a supportive team culture and a strong focus on work-life balance. Other benefits of this role include:

Purpose-driven work on issues like housing, climate resilience, infrastructure, and planning system reform.

Professional development opportunities, including exposure to high-level networks and policy leadership.

Supportive, collaborative culture that values diversity, integrity, and initiative.

Access to an Employee Assistance Program and other wellbeing initiatives.

Flexible hybrid working, with time split between our Melbourne CBD office and home.