Senior Policy Officer

Want to use your policy experience somewhere it will carry real weight?

The sustained focus on housing security and affordability creates a real opportunity to drive meaningful change for the housing system and the people it serves. CHIA NSW is seeking a Senior Policy Officer to help turn evidence, advocacy and values into lasting policy change.

The Community Housing Industry Association NSW (CHIA NSW) is the peak body for not-for-profit community housing providers in NSW. Our members provide secure, affordable homes for more than 94,000 people across the state – the largest community housing industry in Australia.

The opportunity

CHIA NSW operates at the intersection of government, industry, and community; leveraging evidence and industry insights to shape policy and influence debate. As a Senior Policy Officer you will contribute to policy development, advocacy and industry leadership across complex and often contested policy issues.

The role has a particular focus on homelessness, community housing operations, and service innovation – areas where policy settings are closely linked to practical outcomes for people and communities.

The position combines research, analysis and engagement with senior stakeholders inside and outside government. This is a unique opportunity to contribute across the full policy cycle, from problem definition through to implementation realities.

Key aspects of the role include:

• Working closely with member organisations to understand operational realities and emerging policy issues.
• Leading research and analysis on complex policy matters to support CHIA NSW’s advocacy efforts.
• Preparing evidence‑based submissions, briefings, and position statements for CHIA NSW’s members and external audiences.
  Building and maintaining strong relationships with member organisations and external stakeholders.
• Contributing expert advice to inform our media and communications strategy.
• Representing CHIA NSW on external committees and working groups, as appropriate.
• Contributing to broader public affairs and government relations activities as part of a small, collaborative team.

Please refer to the position description for full details.

About you

You are an experienced policy professional who brings credibility, curiosity, and sound judgement to your work. You are comfortable contributing to complex policy discussions involving competing interests and perspectives.

As a senior member of the team, you will be expected to manage your workload independently and work constructively with others, both within and outside the organisation.

You will bring:

• Relevant qualifications in social sciences, law, economics, or a related discipline, and/or equivalent professional experience.
• At least five years’ experience in policy analysis and development, including producing high‑quality reports, briefings, and submissions.
• Experience in a senior policy role within government, a not‑for‑profit organisation, or a peak body.
• A solid understanding of government processes and how policy is developed, negotiated, and implemented.
• Demonstrated knowledge of housing and homelessness issues, ideally within the social or community housing context.
• An understanding of community housing operations and approaches to service innovation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including confidence engaging with senior stakeholders.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.

You are motivated to work with an organisation that seeks to improve the lives individuals and families who experience housing insecurity. Like us, you believe that safe, secure, and affordable housing is a fundamental right.

What we offer

This is a full‑time, ongoing role based in Sydney. Part‑time arrangements (minimum four days per week) may be considered.

A competitive salary package commensurate with skills and experience will be negotiated with the successful applicant. Additionally, CHIA NSW offers:

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Additional paid leave over the Christmas period, plus a birthday leave day.
• Leave loading and access to generous tax‑free salary packaging.
• A supportive, collegial workplace with a clear sense of purpose and exceptional levels of staff engagement.

How to apply

To apply for this role, please submit a short cover letter addressing the selection criteria outlined in the position description, together with an up-to-date CV.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for an interview before the closing date, so please apply as soon as possible.

Please note that as a condition of employment, CHIA NSW requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (including booster shots, when eligible).

Please contact Michael Carnuccio, Manager – Policy, with any queries about the role by emailing recruitment@communityhousing.org.au using the subject line: Senior Policy Officer enquiry.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF COUNTRY

CHIA NSW is honoured to work on the ancestral lands of the Gadigal People. CHIA NSW acknowledges that the land is, was, and always will be Aboriginal land. We recognise the Gadigal people as the custodians of the lands, seas and waterways and celebrate their strength, history, and enduring culture.