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A Policy Officer conducts research and analysis into policies affecting a range of sectors. You might liaise with stakeholders and examine policies currently in place. Policy Officers carry out research on social and economic issues and analyse the impact of new policies or changes to existing policies. You might provide advice or recommendations to policy decision makers. Policy Officers should have strong analytical skills and be able to communicate clearly with colleagues and other stakeholders. It’s important you can manage your time well and use a range of research techniques. Policy Officers should be able to present information in a professional way and work well in a team environment.
There are 12 courses available for people who want to become a Policy Officer. These are the top 5 most popular courses.
Possible job outcomes:
The Bachelor of Midwifery (Honours) offers graduates from the Bachelor of Midwifery a chance to enhance their skills and knowledge in research. It highlights the mutual relationship between midwifery research and practical midwifery contexts. This course enables students to receive training in clinically focused research, deepening their understanding of research's vital role in midwifery. It's designed to expand both practical and theoretical aspects of midwifery, contributing to the development of well-rounded midwifery professionals..
Average duration: 12 months.
The Master of Social Work is a comprehensive course designed to develop skilled professionals in the field of social work. It focuses on imparting knowledge and skills for effective practice in health, community services, and non-government organisations. The course emphasises ethical values, critical thinking, and the ability to implement holistic approaches, considering clients' unique backgrounds and needs. It also provides a pathway to leadership roles, preparing students to address complex social issues with empathy and professionalism in various social work environments..
Average duration: 24 months.
The Master of International Relations delves into global challenges like conflict, social and economic fairness, poverty, and environmental sustainability. It examines interactions between states and non-state entities, and the evolving international landscape. This postgraduate course sharpens student's analytical abilities, particularly in areas of justice, development, and environmental issues. The field, constantly changing, covers diplomacy, security, human rights, globalisation, and international entities. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in government, diplomacy, international trade, global organisations, NGOs, and the media. .
The Master of Education (Career Development) is tailored for professionals in teaching, counselling, and community roles, focusing on enhancing career planning support for individuals and organisations. Students delve into key issues in career development, such as policy, employability, and societal impact of education. This course fosters a deep understanding of the educational challenges in diverse, evolving communities, and encourages applying personal experiences and workplace-based research to address contemporary issues in education..
Average duration: 18 months.
The Master of Public Health (Research) prepares students for a proactive role in preventing disease and promoting health in a globalised context, whilst honing their research skills. Graduates will possess advanced capabilities in project design, evaluation, decision-making, resource management, and coordination. Furthermore, they'll adeptly convey information, both orally and in writing, to diverse audiences, aligned with their specific area of research expertise..
In Australia, a full time Policy Officer generally earns $1,730 per week ($89,960 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
There has been a drop in the number of people working in this field over the last five years. There are currently 13,300 people employed in this sector in Australia and many of them specialise as a Policy Officer. Policy Officers may find work across all regions of Australia, particularly larger towns and cities.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If a career as a Policy Officer interests you, consider enrolling in a Bachelor of Social Research and Policy. This course explores issues including sustainable development, sociology and indigenous studies. You’ll develop the skills to conduct social research and shape public policy in a range of sectors.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within local government and quality assurance. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Local Government
Community Engagement Officer
$960 weekly pay
Council Maintenance Worker
$1,150 weekly pay
Council Member
$750 weekly pay
Local Government Administration Officer
Local Government Customer Service Assistant
Community Engagement Coordinator
$1,250 weekly pay
Environmental Health Officer
Foreign Affairs Adviser
Government Accountant
$1,350 weekly pay
Government Relations Manager
$1,500 weekly pay
International Development Worker
Local Government Officer
Planning Officer
Policy Analyst
$1,730 weekly pay
Policy Officer
Policy Researcher
Policy Writer
Public Health Researcher
$1,442 weekly pay
Public Servant
Public Service Officer
Diplomat
$2,700 weekly pay
Government Consultant
$5,000 weekly pay
Government Policy Advisor
$1,820 weekly pay
Investigation Manager
$1,540 weekly pay
Local Government Project Manager
Manager of Corporate Services
Policy Adviser
Policy Specialist
$2,500 weekly pay
Policymaker
Political Adviser
$2,310 weekly pay
Public Health Officer
Senior Compliance Officer
$1,920 weekly pay
Senior Rates Officer
Workplace Inspector
$1,600 weekly pay
Quality Assurance
Compliance Officer
Governance Coordinator
Governance Officer
Quality Assurance Auditor
Quality Assurance Manager
Quality Controller
Review Officer
Compliance Analyst
Learn more about Policy Officer courses in your area.