Associate Policy Director (Customer policy team)
About us The Australian Banking Association (ABA) is the voice of the banking industry, working with member banks to provide leadership in the interests of the Australian community. We promote best practice and contribute to public policy development to ensure the banking sector operates efficiently, honestly and fairly. As an industry advocate, we work closely with government, regulators and other stakeholders to drive positive change and build trust and confidence in the banking system.
About the role
About the role As the Associate Policy Director on the Customer Policy team at the Australian Banking Association, you will play a crucial role in shaping customer-focused policies and initiatives that drive positive outcomes for the banking industry and its customers. In this full-time position based in Sydney, NSW, you will be responsible for providing strategic policy advice, leading policy development, and collaborating with key stakeholders to ensure the banking sector operates effectively and in the best interests of consumers.
What you'll be doing
* Deliver on the ABA's strategic plan and policy action plans to demonstrate the role of Australian banks in serving customers and the community, supporting the economy, shaping the future of banking, and strengthening trust through delivering good customer outcomes (ABA strategic priorities).
* Build and maintain trusted relationships with member banks, particularly liaising with technical, legal and regulatory, and business teams in member banks, and take leadership positions on policy issues.
* Build and maintain influential relationships with external stakeholders, including consumer and business advocates, regulators and Government departments.
* Working with ABA Corporate Affairs, contribute to Government Affairs, media and communications plans, and attend external meetings and industry events.
* Working with member banks and stakeholders, develop policy and advocacy positions in response to government-led reforms, and design industry-led policy and reform initiatives, including industry guidelines.
* Proactively manage policy issues, provide problem solving, judgement and execution when faced with complex and urgent issues.
* Provide intelligence trends and insights, identify leading risk indicators and emerging risks and issues.
What we're looking for
* Minimum of 3 to 5 years' experience in a policy, legal, risk or banking operations role, ideally within the banking, finance, government or consumer advocacy sectors.
* Strong understanding of the Australian financial services industry, regulatory environment, and consumer protection frameworks.
* Financial hardship, customer vulnerability, financial abuse and dispute resolution policy knowledge highly desirable.
* Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, concise policy recommendations.
* Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement, consensus-building, and effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
* Familiarity with policy development processes and an understanding of the legislative and regulatory landscape.
* Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with teams.
What we offer
* Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
* Professional development and training opportunities.
* Opportunity to influence decision makers across industry, regulators and government.
* Flexible working conditions, and opportunities for the right candidate to make a mark in an industry central to enabling the potential of Australia's communities.
Apply now for this exciting opportunity to be part of our dynamic policy team. Please apply online via SEEK, applications close on Sunday 22 February 2026.
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