Important: This page is an independent reference summary. Verify classification decisions against the official ABS source before using them for tax, licensing, immigration or compliance purposes.

Role overview

Policy and Planning Managers in Australia are senior professionals who lead the development and implementation of organisational strategy and policy frameworks. They work across government, corporate, and non-profit sectors to align operational activities with strategic objectives. These managers typically oversee research, analysis, and consultation processes to inform policy development and strategic direction.

The role involves significant stakeholder engagement, including advising senior executives, government officials, and board members on policy matters. In the Australian context, these professionals must navigate complex regulatory environments and often contribute to legislative development processes. Their work ensures organisations remain compliant, responsive to changing conditions, and strategically positioned for future challenges and opportunities.

Key tasks in practice

Policy and Planning Managers perform diverse responsibilities that blend strategic thinking with practical implementation:

  • Developing and monitoring strategic plans, business objectives, and organisational performance standards
  • Leading policy research, analysis, and development processes to address organisational and regulatory requirements
  • Coordinating the practical implementation of policies across different business units or government departments
  • Communicating policy frameworks and procedural changes to staff and stakeholders through appropriate channels
  • Establishing accountability measures and performance indicators to track policy effectiveness
  • Overseeing the preparation of policy documents, briefing papers, and strategic reports for decision-makers
  • Providing expert advice to senior leadership on policy, program, and legislative matters
  • Representing organisations at consultations, public hearings, and industry forums on policy issues
  • Conducting both short-term operational planning and long-term strategic forecasting
  • Developing contingency plans and scenarios for uncertain future events and regulatory changes

Skill level explanation

The skill level 1 classification indicates that Policy and Planning Manager positions typically require a bachelor degree or higher qualification. In Australia, many roles require additional relevant experience, often five or more years in policy development, strategic planning, or related management positions.

This classification level corresponds to the highest skill category in the OSCA system, reflecting the complex analytical, leadership, and strategic capabilities required. Professionals in these roles often hold postgraduate qualifications in public policy, business administration, law, or specialised fields relevant to their industry. The skill level assessment is used for Australian statistical purposes and may inform immigration assessments, though specific visa requirements are determined separately.

Industry context

Policy and Planning Managers work across multiple sectors in Australia, with significant employment in government administration and professional services. According to ANZSIC classifications, common industries include:

  • Central government administration (7530) - developing and implementing national policies
  • State government administration (7520) - overseeing state-level policy frameworks
  • Local government administration (7510) - coordinating municipal policies and strategic planning
  • Management advisory services (6962) - providing policy and strategic consulting to client organisations

These professionals also work in larger corporate organisations, non-government organisations, educational institutions, and healthcare providers. The role's focus varies by sector, with government positions often emphasizing public policy development and regulatory compliance, while corporate roles may focus more on business strategy, risk management, and organisational development.