Policy Advisor

About the Role:

The Australian Retail Council (ARC) is seeking a Policy Advisor to support the development and delivery of ARC’s policy and advocacy agenda across priority policy areas affecting the retail sector.

This role contributes to policy research and analysis, developing clear policy advice and practical materials for members, and supports engagement with government, regulators and other stakeholders across a range of policy areas, including the conditions impacting the risk and resilience of the retail industry. You will help prepare high-quality policy submissions, briefings and discussion papers, support advocacy campaigns, and assist in representing ARC in engagements with government, regulators and industry stakeholders.

The role works closely with ARC members and internal teams to ensure policy positions are practical, evidence-based and aligned with the realities facing retailers of all sizes. While responsibilities will span multiple policy streams, the role offers particular exposure to issues influencing the safety, resilience and continuity of retail operations, alongside broader policy priorities.

This is an excellent opportunity for a policy professional seeking a role with meaningful depth in applied public policy and industry advocacy.

About You:

You are a capable policy professional with strong analytical skills and an interest in applied, real-world policy. You enjoy working across multiple issues, engaging stakeholders and translating complex policy into clear, practical insights.

You will demonstrate:

• At least 3, and preferably 5 or more, years’ experience in policy, advocacy, government or regulatory environments
• Strong research and writing capability, including briefs, submissions or reports
• Understanding of the Australian policy and regulatory environment
• Confidence engaging with government, industry or community stakeholders
• Ability to manage multiple policy priorities simultaneously
• A collaborative mindset and interest in industry-facing policy work

Candidates with experience or interest in areas such as supply chains, retail crime, workplace safety, regulatory compliance, operational risk or resilience-related policy will be highly regarded.

A tertiary qualification in economics, law, public policy or a related discipline is required.

About Us:

The Australian Retail Council (ARC) is the unified voice for the retail community in Australia. It represents a $444 billion sector that employs 1.4 million Australians across metropolitan, regional, and remote communities – making retail the largest private sector employer in the country and a significant contributor to the Australian economy.

Our membership spans the spectrum of retail, from family-owned small and independent retailers that make up 95% of our membership, through to our largest national and international retailers that employ thousands of Australians and support both metropolitan and regional communities every day.

We are committed to ensuring every Australian respects and celebrates the sustaining contribution of retail to our nation.

We promote flexible working arrangements for all employees which allows balancing working from home and working from our offices.

We encourage all applicants, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, Australian South Sea Islander people, people with disability, LGBTIQ and culturally diverse candidates to apply.

To Apply:

If you are interested in joining a highly respected membership organisation that values respect, integrity, collaboration, accountability, and a focus on excellence, please apply.

Please submit your CV and a Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria.

Applications close 27 February 2026, however, applications will be reviewed as received and the position may be filled prior to the closing date.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.