About Per Capita 

Join one of Australia's leading independent progressive think tanks and help shape the policies that will define Australia's future, including equitable housing, an equitable tax system, responsible technology, the post-carbon economy, workers' rights, gender and cultural equality and more.

At Per Capita, we combine rigorous research with real-world impact. Our work informs governments, contributes to parliamentary inquiries, influences public debate and features regularly in national media. We bring together diverse stakeholders to tackle complex economic, social and democratic challenges and develop practical, evidence-based solutions.

We are also a trusted adviser to not-for-profit organisations, social enterprises and peak bodies, providing research, policy, evaluation and strategic advice that helps strengthen their impact and influence.

We are a small team that works both cooperatively and independently. The role will be ideally based in Melbourne, however we can accept candidates from other parts of Australia. We offer a competitive salary, additional paid leave between Christmas and New Year and flexible working arrangements, including working from home and flexible work hours.  

About the role 

We are seeking a data-driven, well-rounded individual with an understanding of current economic, housing, technology and future of work policy issues, and a demonstrated interest in applied policy research, with ideally a minimum of 4 years experience. 

• Design and deliver high-impact research, evaluation, advisory projects and submissions, including housing, economic, and social policy initiatives, for a diverse range of audiences.
• Lead project planning and delivery, including stakeholder engagement, project management, quality assurance, and the translation of research findings into practical policy recommendations.
• Contribute to thought leadership, and public profile of the organisation through publications, presentations, media engagement, parliamentary inquiries and stakeholder forums.
• Work within a multidisciplinary team committed to delivering rigorous research and real-world impact, while fostering a supportive, inclusive, and flexible workplace culture.

The following skills, experience and attributes would position you to make a contribution to our team and our mission.

About you 

Skills and experience 

Qualifications:

• Qualification in economics, public policy, housing/planning, sociology, artificial intelligence or a related discipline. (essential)
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas: economics, housing, artificial intelligence, or other social areas. (desirable) 

Research and policy making skills:

• Strong analytical and quantitative capabilities, with the ability to interpret complex data and evidence. (essential)
• Strong digital and technical skills (Microsoft excel – essential; strata, SPSS – desirable)
• Research skills including the design, delivery and evaluation of projects. (essential)
• Critical analysis skills with the ability to translate evidence into practical policy insights. (essential)
• Demonstrated understanding of the Australian political, policy and institutional landscape. (essential) 

Time management skills:

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent projects while maintaining high standards of quality and meeting deadlines. (essential)
• Comfortable operating in fast-paced, politically sensitive and public-facing environments. (essential)
• Strong project management skills, including project planning and risk management (desirable) 

Communication skills:

• Excellent written communication skills, including the preparation of research reports, policy briefs, submissions, and thought leadership publications for different audiences. (essential)
• Well-developed verbal communication and presentation skills, including the ability to engage with diverse audiences and a willingness to undertake media engagement and attend parliamentary hearings. (essential)

Relationship and stakeholder management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with government, academic, and community sector stakeholders to inform research, strengthen partnerships, and maximise impact. (essential)
• Established networks across relevant policy areas, for example, government, academia, industry, unions, philanthropy and the community sector, with the ability to leverage these relationships to advance research, advocacy and organisational impact. (desirable)

Attributes:

• A commitment to evidence-based policy and research that contributes to a fair and equitable society.
• A commitment to transparency and intellectual honesty in all aspects of work.
• A collaborative and respectful approach, with a willingness to contribute to team success and support colleagues.
• Adaptability and flexibility, with the ability to thrive in a small, fast-paced organisation, work across multiple projects and responsibilities, and quickly learn and apply new skills and knowledge.
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset and a willingness to take initiative.
• Intellectual curiosity and a proven ability to quickly develop expertise in emerging policy issues and unfamiliar subject areas.
• Openness to diverse perspectives and a commitment to constructive dialogue and continuous learning.
• Ability to work independently, without close supervision 

Per Capita is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We encourage applications from people of First Nations backgrounds, different cultural backgrounds, all genders, ages, abilities, and lived experiences.