Policy Officer

The Organisation

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), based in Canberra, is the peak body representing Australian farmers and agriculture. The NFF’s purpose is to lead Australian Agriculture with a bold target for agriculture to be Australia’s next $100 billion industry.

The NFF is seeking a highly motivated individual to fill the full-time position of Policy Officer in the Rural Affairs portfolio. This role is the perfect next step for a motivated individual looking to progress their policy and advocacy career.

The Role

The Rural Affairs team develops policy and advocates for policy that drives the development of a sustainable and profitable agricultural sector, with a focus on biosecurity, animal welfare, ag-vet chemicals, research and innovation, and telecommunications policy.

The role reports to the General Manager, Rural Affairs, and provides high-level policy research, analysis and development support, as well as administrative support with a focus on biosecurity, animal welfare, agvet chemicals, innovation and connectivity policy areas.

The role may also broadly support the NFF Policy Managers as required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop high-level policy, with a focus on biosecurity, animal welfare, agvet chem, innovation and connectivity policy areas.

• Provide support to the General Manager, Rural Affairs and the CEO, as required.

• Liaison with internal and external stakeholders to inform policy research and development.

• Advocate policy positions to internal and external stakeholders to drive policy outcomes.

• Coordinate and administer Committees in the Rural Affairs portfolio, ensuring the integrity of the NFF structures and procedures.

Skills and Experience

• Formal qualifications – Relevant Bachelor level tertiary qualifications essential.

• Experience researching, analysing and developing policy.

• An affinity with or interest in the Australian agriculture sector is desirable.

• Experience in managing and communicating workload priorities.

• Highest standard of integrity and professionalism in all actions.

• Demonstrated accuracy and attention to detail.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including excellent attention to detail.

• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Suite of programs.

• Minute taking and meeting procedure experience.

• The ability to take direction, often working to tight deadlines under minimal supervision.

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise workload.

• Proven experience in providing high-level support in a deadline-driven environment.

To Apply

To be considered for this role, please provide a copy of your CV plus a cover letter outlining why you’re the best person for the role.

Applications close at 9am on Monday 18 March 2024.