The organisation

As Australia’s only national bird conservation charity, we are on a mission to put birds and nature on the path to recovery within a decade, leading and facilitating action that halts biodiversity loss and restores ecosystems. We can only achieve this with the help and support afforded to us by our diverse stakeholders including supporters, campaigners, donors, members and like-minded conservation organisations.

BirdLife Australia takes a science and evidence-based approach to bird conservation. Where strong conservation plans are in place and well-resourced the evidence tells us that threatened species can be brought back from the brink of extinction. With a 100-plus year history and Australia’s strongest and longest-lived collection of data and surveys, BirdLife Australia brings a wealth of observation and experience to the protection of native birds.

BirdLife Australia is a diverse organisation with more than 350,000 supporters, donors, volunteers, campaigners and members, over 150 staff across Australia, and a network of more than 40 voluntary community groups.

BirdLife Australia is truly local to global, with a network of more than 40 voluntary community groups on the ground in Australia and is the Australian member of the BirdLife International partnership, the world’s largest partnership for conservation.

Our growing network of people generously give their time, expertise, voice and financial support, standing together with us to help protect Australia’s unique birdlife.

A significant part of BirdLife Australia’s work is done by volunteers acting either alone, in organised groups or serving on Committees. It is important that all staff understand and appreciate the contribution made by volunteers, and are also mindful of their varying skills, interests and motivations.

BirdLife Australia acknowledges the important role First Nations People throughout Australia have played, and continue to play, caring for Country. We acknowledge their continuing connection to land, sea and community and pay respect to Traditional Owners and their cultures, and to their Elders both past and present. BirdLife Australia endeavours to facilitate the further engagement of Indigenous Australians in the research and conservation of our native birds.

The role

The Government Relations Advisor will help deliver BirdLife Australia’s Bird Conservation Strategy by managing engagement and advocacy with federal and state governments, and other key stakeholders, as well as draft and review policy and campaign communications that promote bird and ecological conservation.

The role will work primarily with the Senior Manager Advocacy and Policy, Senior Manager Participation, and CEO to:

• Ensure BirdLife Australia’s key policy and advocacy positions are communicated to government and other key sectors.
• Leverage our substantial supporter base to influence social and economic drivers.
• Advocate for policies, programs and practices that promote bird conservation.
• Work with the private sector to influence the key decision-making processes that affect conservation targets.

Position objective

Improve bird conservation outcomes by maximising strategic engagement with Government and other sectors to influence drivers and deliver optimal policy and legal frameworks.

What you need to know:

This is a full-time position (1 FTE) offered as on ongoing role. Ideally, this role is based in Canberra.

For further information please refer to the attached position description. Any questions can be directed Dannielle Chandler c/o - [email protected] using the subject line: Government Relations Advisor enquiry via EthicalJobs. If you are unable to access the position description, please contact People & Safety on [email protected].

Your application must include a cover letter, a statement briefly addressing the selection criteria and your current resume.

Applicants must have full working rights in Australia to be eligible for appointment.
A current National Police Check (NPC), Working with Children Check (WWCC), and a valid First Aid certificate are required, or a willingness to obtain these.

BirdLife Australia is an equal opportunity employer. Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally diverse backgrounds and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.