WA Local Government Association

Senior Policy Advisor Emergency Management

Senior Policy Advisor Emergency Management

Full-Time

Total Package $150,000 per annum (inclusive of superannuation)

• Turn your passion for policy into impact!

• Work with WALGA policy experts to draft policies and submissions from inception to advocacy

• Sector Leading 6 weeks’ Annual Leave per annum

Lead policy change that protects WA communities from emergencies and disasters.

Do you have a passion for policy development and would love to see tangible outcomes from your work? Not only tangible outcomes, but outcomes in an area as critical as emergency management?

This fast paced, quick-thinking team provides policy advice across the spectrum of emergency management within Local Government - from bushfire management to community-led recovery, from the technicality of total fire bans to the complexity of community resilience. And as if that wasn’t interesting enough, emergency management cuts across other key policy issues from climate change, to planning and community resilience.

With a small pool of policy advisors in this sector and the opportunity to connect with government departments, emergency management committees and not-for-profits, this is a great career opportunity for the right person to make their mark in the sector.

What does a typical week look like?

A lot of roles promise variety, but when we say it, we mean it. You could be contributing to contemporary policy change one moment, implementing a review of Commonwealth funding the next or coordinating consultation with Local Governments on Emergency Services Legislation. With 28 Prescribed State Hazards, a complex State Emergency Management Framework with multiple touch points for Local Governments, and the consolidated emergency services legislation on the horizon, there really is never a dull moment.

When a challenge is presented, you’ll take the initiative to find creative solutions by undertaking consultation, researching best practice or analysing data. You’ll work with our member councils, government departments and emergency management committees and working groups to develop policy positions, and advocate for their adoption by State and Federal Governments. So, you’ll be involved in every step of the process - far from just a cog in the wheel!

Throughout the year you’ll represent WALGA at a range of Emergency Management working groups and committees and always be there to provide support and advice.

So, you could find yourself travelling to remote areas or visiting our metro members, as we work on issues that impact communities across the whole State.

Enough about us. Let’s talk about you.

Whilst experience in Emergency Management is important, what we’re really looking for is someone that lives and breathes policy and understands the impact it can have on communities. Also, someone who thrives on problem-solving and making evidence-based decisions that can turn complex issues into understandable, actionable policy advice.

This role is pivotal to WALGA’s Emergency Management aspirations. The work you’ll do as the Senior Policy Advisor will focus on implementing critical changes that result in better outcomes for Local Governments and help keep WA communities safe. Hence your work will be highly valued across the organisation as well as the Western Australian Emergency Management sector.

Your outstanding written, analytical and conceptual skills, including an ability to structure problems, analyse policy and legislation, will make you a strong advocate for WALGA’s Members. Someone who can get to the bottom of a complex policy problem, generate effective solutions and communicate them influentially.

You’ll enjoy engaging with external stakeholders and be happy and proud to present your work internally and externally. Like us, you’ll take satisfaction from using research to develop evidence-based policy solutions. You’ll either have a sound knowledge of emergency management principles and issues in Western Australia or be excited to absorb it quickly.

Why you’ll love working here

In addition to 6 weeks’ (30 days) annual leave and a suite of flexible working options, our West Leederville office is centrally located within easy reach of public transport, bike paths and paid parking options. We also provide excellent end of trip facilities for those arriving by alternate methods of transport. Our Thrive wellbeing program means you’ll get to enjoy regular activities and initiatives (in fact we could be at a lunch and learn or a healthy mind class whilst you’re reading this.)

We pride ourselves on offering a safe and inclusive culture with fantastic workplace benefits and entitlements, including setting budget aside for professional development. What we are most proud of is getting the chance to work on niche and interesting projects, with some incredibly talented people, on issues that matter.

We also have an active social club to cater for all interests, and if that doesn’t give you enough of a feel for our vibe, we can offer you book club, trivia nights and we’re committed to being a menopause friendly employer.

So, when we say we look after our people and each other, we mean it.

Who are we?

The Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) is an independent, member-based, not-for-profit organisation representing and supporting the WA Local Government sector. Our membership includes all 139 Local Governments in the State. WALGA uses its influence, support and expertise to deliver better outcomes for WA Local Governments and their communities. We do this through effective advocacy to all levels of Government on behalf of our members, and by the provision of expert advice, services and support to Local Governments. WALGA’s vision is to be the authoritative voice and trusted partner for Western Australian Local Government.

To find out more about us, please visit www.walga.asn.au

Apply now

• Roles like this don’t come along often, so if this sounds like the role you have been looking for, please apply.
• If you’re keen to talk it through first, please contact Policy Manager Emergency Management, Rachel Armstrong Ph: 0438 967 185 E: rarmstrong@walga.asn.au
• We may commence interviews upon receipt and reserve the right to close the position early.
• To view the position description please visit our careers page 
• 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.
• This role is being sourced directly by WALGA. We respectfully request no agencies approach.

Applications will close 12:00pm Monday, 24 March 2025.