The Australia Institute is Australia's leading independent public policy think tanks. Through rigorous research, effective communications and strategic advocacy, we help inform public debate and drive positive change on some of the nation's most important economic, social and environmental issues.

About the role

We are seeking an organised, proactive and service-oriented Office Manager to support our growing team. This is a diverse and hands-on role that sits at the heart of the organisation, ensuring our office, systems, people and operations run smoothly every day.

Reporting to the Executive Officer, the Office Manager provides operational, administrative and people-support services across the organisation.

The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting staff, maintaining our office environment, coordinating systems and processes, supporting recruitment and onboarding, managing organisational subscriptions and assisting with finance and supporter administration.

No two days are the same. One day you may be onboarding a new staff member, coordinating office facilities and managing supplier relationships. The next you could be assisting with recruitment, processing supporter enquiries, organising professional development or helping implement new people and culture systems.

This role would suit someone who enjoys variety, takes initiative, has excellent attention to detail and gains satisfaction from helping others succeed.

Key responsibilities

Office Operations & Administration

• Manage the day-to-day operation of the Canberra office.
• Coordinate facilities, maintenance, suppliers, contractors and office resources.
• Provide front-of-house support, answer incoming phone calls, and manage incoming communications, mail and deliveries.
• Coordinate meeting spaces, including room bookings, setup, catering arrangements and pack-down.
• Arrange travel and accommodation for visiting staff and support organisational mail-outs and logistics.
• Coordinate onboarding and offboarding activities, including system access, equipment, office inductions and any necessary subscriptions.

Finance & Supporter Administration

• Support financial administration, including corporate credit card reconciliations, record keeping and documentation in Xero.
• Process donations, issue receipts and maintain accurate supporter information in NationBuilder.
• Respond to supporter enquiries and provide high-quality customer service.

Technology & Systems Coordination

• Act as the primary liaison with external IT providers.
• Coordinate staff access to systems, software and equipment.
• Assist with technology-related enquiries and support the effective operation of office technology and communications systems.

About you

The ideal candidate will have:

• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Strong administrative experience in a busy office environment.
• Outstanding attention to detail and ability to manage competing priorities.
• Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience supporting finance, HR or operational processes.
• Confidence working with databases, CRM systems and cloud-based software.
• A proactive and solutions-focused approach.
• The ability to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team culture.

Why Join us?

This is an opportunity to play a central role in an organisation that has a real impact on public debate and policy outcomes. Working closely with researchers, campaigners, communicators and operational staff, you will help create an environment where important work can flourish.

We offer:

• A supportive and collaborative workplace.
• Meaningful work that contributes to positive change.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Flexible and family-friendly work practices.
• A dynamic, values-driven team environment.

Applications will be assessed as they are received.  

Join us in shaping a better future for Australia.