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Policy Specialists help large corporations and government agencies develop public and legal policies. They usually have a specialist area of expertise (eg, environment, mining, business law, public health, cybersecurity, workplace safety) and carry out background research and detailed analysis of the real-world impacts of proposed policies, then provide strategic advice to decision-makers.
As a Policy Specialist you could be leading a project to review the efficiency of an existing company policy, making a presentation to the executive team to outline recommended changes to company policy, researching the legal implications of a policy change, or overseeing the writing of new policy documents with the administration department.
There are 4 courses available for people who want to become a Policy Specialist.
Possible job outcomes:
The Master of Public Administration develops comprehensive public management skills, enhancing career prospects within the public sector and at the private-public sector interface. This course offers both breadth and depth in understanding and applying administrative and managerial concepts, preparing students for advanced roles in various organisational settings. It is particularly suited for professionals seeking to expand their expertise and impact in public administration. .
Average duration: 18 months.
The Graduate Diploma in Environmental Management is designed to cultivate analytical and strategic skills essential for addressing critical worldwide issues, including climate change, pollution, and land clearing. This course enables learners to develop and apply strategies that effectively balance social equity, environmental sustainability, and economic demands. It focuses on imparting essential techniques and methodologies crucial for resolving issues related to sustainable development, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact in the field of environmental management. .
Average duration: 12 months.
The Bachelor of Arts (Applied Linguistics) provides a comprehensive understanding of human language and its influence on our experiences, merging theoretical and practical perspectives with an emphasis on real-world applications. It delves into how language is integral to human understanding, communication, and culture. Students gain expertise in applying linguistics to contemporary issues and develop high-level linguistic, analytical, and research skills. They also enhance their writing, presentation, digital, and problem-solving abilities, skills highly valued by employers across various fields. .
Average duration: 3 years.
The Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management fosters innovative thinking for addressing environmental challenges at both local and global levels. This course prepares graduates to be reflexive leaders, change-agents, and advocates in environmental fields. It involves a thorough, critical, and creative examination of the sociocultural and political-economic factors influencing current environmental issues, including human impacts. Ideal for those aspiring to make a meaningful difference in environmental management, this certificate equips students with the skills to effectively respond to today's environmental challenges. .
Average duration: 6 months.
Policy Specialists generally earn between $90,000 and $130,000 per annum, depending on your specialist skills, qualifications, and the industry profile of your employer.
There are no clear figures for Policy Specialists working in Australia right now. They are usually employed by larger corporations, non-profits, and government agencies, though some Policy Specialists work as independent consultants.
To become a Policy Specialist in private enterprise you will need a Bachelor’s degree in business or law. The Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Business (Corporate Governance), or Bachelor of Business (Business Law) would be good starting points. Many organisations will also expect you to have post-graduate qualifications such as an MBA, Graduate Certificate in Policy and Governance or Master of Politics and Policy.
If you have aspirations to provide policy advice to government officials, you should consider additional qualifications in political science and public administration.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
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Here are some potential career pathways within local government. 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
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Council Member
$750 weekly pay
Local Government Administration Officer
Local Government Customer Service Assistant
Community Engagement Coordinator
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Environmental Health Officer
Foreign Affairs Adviser
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$1,500 weekly pay
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Local Government Officer
Planning Officer
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Policy Officer
Policy Researcher
Policy Writer
Public Health Researcher
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Public Servant
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Diplomat
$2,700 weekly pay
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$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
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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