Job opportunity

OFFICE OF THE LEADER OF THE SECOND OPPOSITION PARTY

Position Title: Chief of Staff

Classification: Level 8, Between $157, 900- $171,005 Public Sector CSA Agreement 2024
Contract Type: Term of Government
Reports To: Mr Shane Love MLA, Leader of the Second Opposition Party

Role Overview

The Chief of Staff plays a pivotal leadership role in the office of Shane Love MLA in his capacity as the Leader of the Second Opposition Party, overseeing day-to-day operations and advising on the management of business in both Houses of Parliament. The role provides high-level strategic, political, and operational support to the Leader, ensuring the effective coordination of parliamentary, policy, staffing, stakeholder, and media activities. This is a demanding, fast-paced role requiring sound judgement, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of the parliamentary and political environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Management of office staffing, including staff roles, performance, and workflows, in line with the strategic objectives of the Leader.
• Provide strategic and procedural advice on the management of parliamentary business, legislation, motions, and debates.
• Oversee the development of policy and provide critical analysis of government policy, positioning, and stakeholder submissions.
• Foster and manage relationships with Federal Ministerial offices, the lay party organisation, and relevant parliamentary and political stakeholders.
• Lead stakeholder engagement, ensuring the Leader’s office maintains strong relationships across government, industry, and community sectors.
• Manage the LOSP budget, including oversight of expenditure, reporting, and compliance.

Summary of Duties

• Coordinate and advise on  business in both Houses of Parliament.
• Draft and review speeches, briefings, and public messaging for the Leader.
• Lead legislative analysis and consultation with relevant agencies, Ministers, and stakeholders.
• Provide strategic advice on the political and procedural implications of legislation and emerging issues.
• Liaise with Parliamentary Clerks and senior parliamentary staff on matters of procedure, confidentiality, and process.
• Drive policy development across a broad range of portfolio areas in consultation with parliamentary colleagues and party stakeholders.
• Act as the key point of contact for Ministerial and Chiefs of Staff at State and Federal levels.
• Oversee the implementation of a strategic stakeholder engagement program for the Leader.
• Draft and provide oversight on submissions to parliamentary and other formal inquiries.

Selection Criteria

Essential

• Demonstrated experience in a high-level strategic, political, or parliamentary advisory role.
• In-depth understanding of parliamentary processes, political protocols, and government policy-making.
• Proven leadership and staff management skills with the ability to build and manage high-performing teams.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with experience providing high-level advice on complex issues.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including speechwriting and political messaging.
• High-level interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to manage sensitive relationships and navigate competing interests.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• High level of discretion, political judgement, and professionalism.

Desirable

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in political science, public policy, law, or related fields.
• Prior experience in a senior political or government advisory position.

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

• A current resume/Curriculum Vitae outlining relevant experience, including the names and contact details of two referees; and
• A cover letter (maximum two pages) addressing the selection criteria.

Applications should be emailed to OPSHR@dpc.wa.gov.au clearly marked “Private and Confidential – Chief of Staff Application”.

Applications close at 4:00pm on Friday, 25 July 2025.

For further information about the role, please contact OPSHR@dpc.wa.gov.au