The Opportunity At The Kids Research Institute Australia, we are passionate about creating lasting improvements in the health and wellbeing of children and young people. To help achieve this mission, we partner with governments and service providers across Australia and internationally to generate evidence-informed policy that drives social impact and delivers meaningful outcomes for our communities. The Senior Advisor will report to the Head of Government Relations and provide high level advice on stakeholder engagement across the Institute. This role is primarily responsible for building and maintaining trusted stakeholder relationships across government, the university sector and partner organisations. Through the establishment of systems, processes and strategies, the Senior Advisor will support Executive and senior leaders across the Institute to engage effectively to advance our objectives, reputation and impact. The role will also contribute to the implementation of Research Reimagined, our 10-year strategic plan. Key responsibilities: Support the development and implementation of Institute wide stakeholder engagement strategies, systems and processes to map and manage stakeholders across the institute. Provide strategic advice to Executive and Institute leadership on stakeholder issues, sensitivities, risks and opportunities. Identify and progress opportunities to partner with key government and other stakeholders to build engagement and deliver impact for children and families. Develop consistent policy positions aligned to Research Reimagined Strategy and Theme Focus Areas. Based in our modern offices within Perth Children’s Hospital, this full-time role will be offered on an ongoing basis. Part-time and flexible arrangements will be considered for the right candidate. About You The successful candidate will be highly collaborative and relationship-focused, with experience in engaging and influencing stakeholders at all levels. Ideally you will hold a bachelor’s degree in science, business, art, or a related discipline, or possess equivalent experience. You will also demonstrate: Significant experience in developing and maintaining strategic stakeholder relationships in a research institute, government and or other relevant workplaces. Experience in providing highly efficient advice and support to Director level or equivalent, including operating with a strategic focus and ability to direct and manage administrative governance processes. Excellent written and oral communication skills, including ability to produce high level policy documents, correspondence, and reports. Significant experience in developing and maintaining strategic stakeholder relationships (internally and externally) in a research institute, government and or other relevant workplaces. Knowledge of and experience in political environments, and parliamentary and legislative processes in all levels of government. At The Kids Research Institute Australia, we are committed to building a workplace culture that reflects the communities we serve. We actively recruit support and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, LGBTQIA people, people of all ages, and those with diverse lived experiences. We also provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive. If you meet many, but not all, of the role requirements, we encourage you to apply. We also welcome you to mention any career breaks in your cover letter to help us understand your journey. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in how we: Support staff-led inclusion and allyship groups. Offer flexible work practices that recognise different needs and life stages. Provide training, development and mentoring opportunities to increase inclusive leadership and create an environment where all staff can thrive. Partner with communities to strengthen cultural awareness and belonging. Ensure adjustments and accessible practices are available for diverse community groups. We continually strive to measure our progress and improve where we can. Alongside our inclusive culture, you’ll enjoy: Extra annual leave at Christmas and Easter. Salary packaging and entertainment benefits. Health and wellbeing programs with weekly events. Flexible and hybrid working options. Recognition and professional development opportunities, including LinkedIn Learning. Modern offices with sit-to-stand desks and end-of-trip facilities. Staff discounts on travel, IT, stationery, and access to corporate health insurance. How to Apply If this role feels like the right fit and an exciting new opportunity for you, please click on 'Apply Now' to visit our Career Site, view the Job Description, and submit your application. Please include a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) that specifically addresses the skills and experience outlined in the “About You” section. Applications will only be accepted through our career portal. If you are experiencing technical difficulties or require reasonable accommodations in completing your application, please contact recruitment@thekids.org.au. Click here for the Job Description Contact Name: Fiona Roche Contact Email: fiona.roche@thekids.org.au Closing Date: 01/06/2026 - We reserve the right to hire prior to the closing date. The Kids Research Institute Australia is committed to being champions of gender equity, diversity, and inclusivity. We actively encourage applications from people of all ages, nationalities, abilities, and cultures, including: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with diverse genders, sexes and sexualities and people living with disability. As such we are a proud Bronze award recipient of the first Australian Athena Swan Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) pilot program. We acknowledge that when working in environments which contribute to the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people, it is imperative that Aboriginal people are at the forefront of this work. We have launched the Aboriginal Employment and Career Development Strategy to increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, students and researchers employed in the Institute who provide guidance and support in our work in Aboriginal health.
