About the Australian Psychological Society (APS)

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) is the foremost professional body and voice for psychological science and practice in Australia. From professional development and support services to advocating in government, we cater to the needs of members and help grow the capacity of the psychology workforce. While in the general public we provide the psychology information and tools people need, ultimately we serve our purpose of improving the mental health and wellbeing of the Australian population.

Stronger Together, Respect in every action, Forward Thinking, Professional Integrity

About the Role

We are passionate about our people and it is with pleasure that we announce an exciting opportunity - we are recruiting for a Senior Policy Advisor to join the APS Policy and Research team in a part time FTE0.6 (3 days/week) capacity.

The Senior Policy Adviser provides the research, analysis and material that forms the policy direction for APS' strategic priorities. The position works on plans and programs for policy research and analysis of issues and trends that affect the work of APS members and community wellbeing more broadly.

The Senior Policy Advisor primary responsibilities include:

• Policy development - assist to develop policies, undertake program of policy briefs, submissions, review papers and position statements, evaluation and report on trends and issues, collaborate with relevant teams and synthesise diverse opinions of members and other stakeholders to develop evidence-informed positions.
• Reporting and communicating - present policy materials internally and externally, represent the APS in policy and health forums, provide policy advice and regularly inform members of policy and advocacy initiatives.
• Research and analysis - undertake research and analysis to develop policy plans and programs, critically analyse literature to develop options and utilise research, government reports and member input to respond to issues.
• Member support and engagement - Consult and collaborate with members to utilise their expertise and inform policy, maintain relationships with Member Groups and support the Professional Resources team to identify areas of need.
• External representation and collaboration - represent the APS to develop and maintain networks, work collaboratively with government departments and other stakeholders on issues and projects relevant to psychology.

We have staff in most states and territories, and the role is open to applicants located anywhere within Australia.

We work in a remote-hybrid model depending on where you are based. Most team members currently work from home, with the option to work in our Melbourne CBD office when it suits them, or as the business requires (ie for large planning meetings).

Our Ideal Candidate

We are looking for a motivated and experienced individual with exceptional communication skills, a broad understanding of public policy issues and deep knowledge of the discipline and practice of psychology.

Key Selection criteria includes:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in psychology and current Ahpra registration.
• A contemporary knowledge of the discipline and practice of psychology.
• Demonstrated experience in policy roles, ideally in relation to professional services such as mental health or health.
• An ability to interpret complex business or government policies and explain them to others.
• Strong experience in analysing data, understanding trends and interpreting statistics.
• Highly developed written and oral presentation skills, with ability to identify key messages and information required for decision making. Able to effectively represent the organisation, collaborate effectively with others and coherently present ideas.
• Ability to manage high workloads and effectively prioritise in times of conflicting deadlines.

Why work with the APS?

In addition to meaningful work and a supportive team, some of the great employee benefits offered at the APS include:

• Access to salary packaging benefits including Salary packaging Living allowance $15,900 (net) & Meal Entertainment Benefit $2,650 (net) putting more money in your pocket.
• Flexible approach to work with no mandated days in the office to provide better work/life balance
• Great social environment to keep us connected
• 12 weeks paid parental leave
• 3 paid volunteer days each year
• Employee Assistance Program & Mental Health First Aiders
• Staff access to Member Benefits Program
• Paid Employee Referral Program, where you are rewarded for referring successful talent

Apply today

If this role sounds like your next career step, please click here to submit your application addressing the key selection criteria in a cover letter, along with your current CV.

Applications will close COB on Monday 1st June.