Policy and Advocacy Advisor
Part-time (0.80 FTE) | Canberra preferred | Flexible working
About Optometry Australia
Optometry Australia is the peak professional membership body for Australian optometrists, representing approximately 85% of all registered optometrists nationally.
We are the influential voice for optometry, working to advance the profession and improve access to high-quality eye care across Australia. As the national body within a federated group of state-based organisations, we lead evidence-based advocacy, policy development and strategic reform across workforce, scope of practice and health system integration.
We offer a flexible and supportive work environment and value collaboration, integrity and forward thinking.
About the Role
We are seeking a Policy and Advocacy Advisor to support Optometry Australia’s national policy and advocacy agenda, with a particular focus on Commonwealth Government engagement and national health policy development.
Working within the Optometry Advancement team and reporting to the Director, Strategy & Policy, this role contributes to the development and delivery of evidence-based policy positions, advocacy initiatives, submissions and briefing materials that strengthen Optometry Australia’s national influence.
The role supports priority reform areas including scope of practice, workforce, funding models and health system integration, and provides high-quality policy, advocacy and secretariat support across national initiatives.
Remote. Based in Canberra (preferred), this role supports engagement with Commonwealth departments, parliamentarians and national stakeholders. Applicants based in other major cities will also be considered. Some interstate travel may be required from time to time.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
· Support the drafting of policy submissions, briefing notes, consultation responses and internal papers aligned with Optometry Australia’s strategic priorities;
· Undertake desktop research, analysis and environmental scanning to inform policy development and advocacy initiatives;
· Support engagement with Commonwealth Government, parliamentarians, regulators and external stakeholders through the preparation of briefs, correspondence and meeting materials;
· Provide secretariat support to advisory committees and working groups, including meeting coordination, agenda preparation, minute taking and action tracking;
· Work collaboratively within a national team to support effective policy development, consultation and advocacy outcomes.
About You
We are seeking a capable and motivated policy professional with a strong interest in health policy and advocacy. You will bring:
· A tertiary qualification in public policy, politics, economics, health or a related discipline;
· Experience or a strong demonstrated interest in government relations, public policy and parliamentary processes;
· Excellent written communication skills, with experience supporting the preparation of policy submissions, briefs and advocacy materials;
· Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesise evidence clearly and concisely;
· Sound organisational skills, including the ability to coordinate meetings, committees and competing priorities;
· The ability to work both collaboratively and independently in a fast-paced policy environment.
Experience in health policy, advocacy, professional associations or not-for-profit organisations will be highly regarded.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to work in a purpose-driven national organisation and contribute to meaningful health system reform that improves access to eye care for communities across Australia.
We offer:
· A part-time (0.80 FTE) ongoing role;
· Flexible working arrangements;
· A collaborative, supportive team environment; and
· The opportunity to work closely with government and national stakeholders on high-impact policy issues.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV (maximum three pages) and a cover letter (maximum two pages) outlining your skills, knowledge and experience relevant to the role.
Applications will be assessed as they are received.