Policy Analyst – WFH (Australia-wide)

Are you an organised policy or education professional? AERO is seeking a talented and driven Policy Analyst with a background in ECEC to help contribute evidence-based policy advice on a range of complex educational issues.

• Offering a competitive base salary starting at $97,920 (commensurate with skills and experience) plus 12% superannuation
• Full time temporary contract until 30 June 2026
• Flexible location, 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 https://edresearch.edu.au

Purpose of the role

The role undertakes policy analysis / research to support policymakers and key stakeholders in using evidence effectively.

Through rigorous analysis and strategic collaboration, the position supports informed decision-making and system improvement within the education sector.

Accountabilities:

• Conduct policy research and analysis, including investigating and analysing issues and opportunities relating to early childhood education and care.
• Implement strategies to maximise the influence of AERO’s research on system programs and policies.
• Develop high quality policy advice on a wide variety of issues in education, including ECEC, schools, child and student outcomes, and evidence use in practice.
• Prepare discussion papers, submissions, and briefs to inform decision making.
• Monitor emerging issues within the policy environment to contribute to timely updates and reviews that inform AERO’s key initiatives and projects.
• Collaborate across the Strategic Engagement & Implementation (ECEC) team with the timely delivery of external projects, which may include working with team members to establish efficient processes.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Essential requirements:

• Experience and understanding of government policy processes and the ability to work within these frameworks
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and collaboration with internal and external partners.

Knowledge and experience:

• Tertiary qualifications (including diplomas or certifications) in public policy, public administration, early childhood education , education policy or a related field and/or relevant experience.

Skills:

• Research and analytical skills, including the ability to assess information from various sources
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, particularly in drafting policy briefs and submissions
• High level of organisational skills and attention to detail.

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 Tuesday, 2 September 2025 (Sydney, AEST)

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: [email protected]
• Please do not send applications to this email address, apply through advert.