Are you a policy whiz with a sharp mind and a desire to be a part of a growing movement for change? Someone who’s excited about using the legislative process to affect meaningful outcomes for people and the planet? Upper House Greens MP Cate Faehrmann is looking for an experienced policy and legislation advisor to join her small and agile team in the NSW parliament.  

This isn’t your ordinary job. You’ll be working in a highly energetic, fast-paced and dynamic environment as part of a motivated small team. On sitting days you'll often be required to work late into the evening, and some days including weekends you will accompany Cate on trips across the state where you’ll meet extraordinary people from all walks of life who are fighting for a future for all of us. You’ll be responsible for providing strategic advice on policy and legislative matters, as well as researching, analysing and developing policy positions in line with the Greens’ values and priorities. You will play a critical role in the development and advocacy of innovative policy solutions and help ensure Cate’s work reflects the needs and concerns of the community.

POSITION DETAILS

Applications will be considered and interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis so please apply as soon as possible. Part-time, full-time and job share applications all considered.

About Cate

Cate is one of 7 Greens MPs in the NSW Parliament. She’s long been part of the fight for climate, environmental and social justice on the streets and inside parliament. She was recently re-elected to the NSW Upper House at the March 2023 state election.

Cate is experienced, dynamic,  and most importantly - she’s  fun, when the occasion calls for it. She was Chair of Sea Shepherd Australia, a founding Director of GetUp!, previous Executive Director of the Nature Conservation Council of NSW and a former Board Member of the Environmental Defenders Office. 

Cate’s portfolio responsibilities include: 

• Water
• Mining, Coal and Gas
• Transport, Infrastructure and Cities
• Drug Law Reform and Harm Reduction 
• Gambling Harm Reduction 
• Healthy Oceans 
• Music and Night-time Economy 
• Science and Technology 
• Western Sydney
  
  

Key Responsibilities

• Research, analyse, and advise on policy and legislative matters, including existing and proposed legislation, regulations, and government policies.
• Develop policy positions and proposals in line with the Greens' values and priorities
• Monitor relevant parliamentary debates, committee inquiries, and public consultations, providing advice and recommendations to Cate on strategic engagement and responses
• Prepare high-quality written materials, including speeches, briefing notes, submissions, and correspondence on policy and legislative matters
• Work with other MPs offices, Greens members and stakeholders on policy and campaigns
• Identify and engage with key stakeholders to build relationships and gather information on policy and legislative issues
• Represent Cate in relevant forums, meetings, and events, as required
• Keep abreast of political developments, policy debates, and relevant research, ensuring Cate is well-informed on emerging issues and trends
  

Selection criteria

Essential

• Tertiary qualification in law, politics, public policy, or a related field, or demonstrated equivalent experience 
• Experience in policy analysis, development, and advocacy, preferably within a political, government, or not-for-profit context, within at least one or more of Cate’s portfolios
• Understanding of the legislative process, parliamentary procedures, and the broader political landscape
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop innovative policy solutions and provide sound advice on complex issues
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft high-quality materials and effectively communicate complex information to diverse audiences
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders
• Commitment to the Greens' values and principles, with a passion for social justice, environmental sustainability, peace and non-violence and grassroots democracy
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, managing competing priorities and meeting tight deadlines

Desirable 

• Experience dealing with the media, including developing and pitching stories to journalists
• Experience with Google Workspace, Microsoft Suite or other office software
• Familiarity with Creative Cloud, CRMs such as NationBuilder or other office or design software
• A current NSW drivers licence
  
  

How to apply

For all enquiries, please contact Ben Cronly on 0487 247 960 or [email protected]. 

To apply, please email [email protected] with the subject line: Application: Policy and Legislation, [your name] with your CV and a short cover letter of no more than 2 pages outlining why you want the role and outlining your relevant skills and experience against the selection criteria. Please be prepared to provide at least 2 professional referees - we will not contact anybody without discussing it with you first.

All applications will be read and considered. We won’t discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender or disability. First Nations people, people with disability, women and gender diverse people are strongly encouraged to apply. If there is anything we can do to make an interview more accessible to you please let us know in your application.

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every single one of the above selection criteria. What’s most important is your passion and ability to learn.