West Leederville, Western Australia | Full-time | Total Package $135,000.00 per annum, inclusive of superannuation. (Base $120,535.71 + 12% Super $14,464.29)
Description
* Support Local Government Members with information and advice to assist decision making.
* Contribute to the development of evidence-based policy and positions across relevant economic and local government issues.
* Enjoy a sector-leading 6 weeks of annual leave.
About The Role
As WALGA's Economist, you will undertake research and analysis on the issues shaping the Local Government landscape. You will prepare high‐quality reports, briefings, discussion papers, and submissions that translate complex information and data into clear, accessible insights and advice for WALGA Members, decision makers and stakeholders. You'll analyse demographic, financial and economic data, develop tools and resources to support budgeting, financial management and strategic planning, and provide practical advice.
Your work will span technical and strategic elements, monitoring key indicators and contributing evidence‐based reasoning to WALGA's formal policy positions. You will be responsible for producing WALGA's economic briefings and the Local Government Cost Index and for collaborating across the organisation to strengthen advocacy, policy development and strategic projects.
One week you may assess reform proposals, the next, support Members with targeted economic insights, present findings, or contribute to developing advocacy strategies.
This position is varied, intellectually stimulating and directly connected to issues affecting Local Governments and their communities across the State.
About You
You bring strong economic capability, analytical acumen and the ability to translate complexity into clarity. You are comfortable working with both quantitative and qualitative data and can develop strategic insights that inform high‐impact policy and advocacy. You'll thrive in this role if you enjoy research and detailed analysis but also value clear communication and stakeholder engagement. You are comfortable advising senior leaders, presenting findings, and shaping narratives that support evidence‐based decision making.
You Will Bring
* A tertiary qualification in Economics or a discipline with substantial economics content.
* Demonstrated experience in economic research, analysis and reporting.
* The ability to develop high‐quality briefings, thought‐leadership papers, policy submissions and strategic insights.
* Strong capability in translating complex data sets into clear, concise advice tailored to different audiences.
* Strong organisational and project‐management capabilities, with experience managing multiple priorities.
Why you'll love working here
Employees have the opportunity to work on unique and meaningful projects that deliver real benefits to Local Governments and the communities they serve. We foster a culture of positive risk‐taking, guided by one of our strategic pillars 'Explore', and underpinned by our value of Curiosity.
Our workplace encourages a spirit of enquiry and an innovation mindset. We're proud to offer benefits that genuinely make a difference. At WALGA, you'll enjoy six weeks of annual leave plus an extra day off on the anniversary of when you started, because your journey with us is worth celebrating. Our Thrive wellbeing program runs all year and is designed to support every aspect of wellbeing – mental, physical and social through education, resources and practical initiatives.
We're committed to helping you grow, both personally and professionally, and we're driving a tech roadmap that's shaping a data‐led future. There are plenty of ways to get involved too, with cross‐organisational working groups such as Reconciliation, Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability.
And that's just the start. You'll also find an active social club run by employees, flexible working options, fantastic end‐of‐trip facilities and a modern office designed for collaboration. We're proud to be recognised as a Menopause‐Friendly Australia employer, because creating an inclusive workplace matters to us.
Apply now
If this sounds like an interesting opportunity, we'd love to hear from you!
* Please include a cover letter (2 page max) that outlines what sets you apart, and why this opportunity would be a great career move for you.
* To view the position description please visit our careers page.
* If you have questions that can't be found in this ad or the position description, please contact Nicole Matthews - Executive Manager Policy (08) 9213 2039.
* Applications will close 12:00pm Wednesday, 11 March 2026. We may commence interviews upon receipt and reserve the right to close the position early.
* Applications via email will not be accepted. As this role is being sourced directly by WALGA, we respectfully request no agencies approach.
WALGA encourages people from different backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and people with disabilities.
We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all candidates. If you have any specific needs or require accommodations to participate fully in the interview process, please let us know. This could include, but is not limited to, accessibility requirements, assistive technologies, or any other considerations.
#J-18808-Ljbffr