Senior Advisor: Student Funding and Success
Universities Australia is the national voice of Australia’s 38 universities. What we say, and do not say, carries weight for a sector that shapes the country. We argue the sector’s case to government, to the parliament and to the public. We put whole-of-sector positions on the table, run campaigns on the issues that matter, and make sure the national conversation about higher education is better informed for our being in it.
About Universities Australia
Universities Australia is the national voice of Australia’s 38 universities. What we say, and do not say, carries weight for a sector that shapes the country. We argue the sector’s case to government, to the parliament and to the public. We put whole-of-sector positions on the table, run campaigns on the issues that matter, and make sure the national conversation about higher education is better informed for our being in it.
The role
This role focuses on translating ATEC’s stewardship functions, including but not limited to needs-based funding, managed growth funding and mission-based compacts into actionable guidance for member institutions and government engagement. The role will play a key role in shaping UA’s interactions with ATEC’s reform agenda.
The incumbent will support the Senior Director, Tertiary Education and Skills by providing subject matter expertise on student funding frameworks and other areas related to student success, leading strategic projects that align with UA priorities, conduct rigorous research and analysis, and engage collaboratively and with purpose with internal colleagues and external stakeholders.
The Senior Advisor role reflects UA’s commitment to expert-informed, agile, and collaborative engagement with ATEC’s stewardship of Australia’s tertiary education system. By centring student funding at the heart of UA’s strategy, this role ensures our advocacy drives equitable access, meets future skills needs, and supports a responsive, high-performing sector in line with ATEC’s mandate.
This position would suit a policy professional looking to leave an indelible mark on Australia’s higher education policy landscape.
Reports to: Senior Director: Tertiary Education and Skills
Direct reports: Nil
Employment type: Full-time - ongoing
Key responsibilities
- Provide deep subject matter expertise on student funding frameworks, including needs-based funding allocations, managed growth funding models, and mission-based compacts.
- Lead strategic projects that align UA’s student funding policy with ATEC’s reform agenda and UA’s member priorities.
- Conduct rigorous research, horizon scanning, and analyses to inform evidence-based recommendations on per-student funding levels.
- Engage collaboratively with ATEC Commissioners, Department of Education officials, Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA), universities, student bodies and other relevant stakeholders to gather insights and build consensus on funding reforms.
- Track ATEC’s evolving reform agenda as it moves beyond establishment into full statutory operation, including the Tertiary Roadmap, Statement of Strategic Priorities, and the 2027 mission-based compacts process, to keep UA’s advocacy positions current.
- Prepare high-quality submissions, reports and briefings to advocate UA’s positions on student funding in ATEC consultations, working groups, and external forums.
- Support development of strategic frameworks, performance measures, and reporting tools to monitor the impact of funding reforms on access, equity, and institutional sustainability.
Capabilities and Experience
- A passion for higher-education policy, student equity, and data-informed strategy.
- 4+ years’ experience in social policy, analysis, research, or government relations.
- Extensive knowledge of student funding frameworks within higher education, associated legislation and regulations, and reform implementation.
- Experience of planning and prioritising competing projects in a changing environment, and under time pressures.
- Excellent communication skills: writing, presentations, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement.
- Ability to thrive in agile, collaborative teams and adapt quickly to shifting priorities.
- A proactive mindset, curiosity, self-motivation, attention to detail, and a keen interest in professional growth.
Measure of success
- Evidence-based student funding advocacy is current and aligned with ATEC priorities.
- Briefings, submissions and reports are accurate, timely and influential.
- UA is seen as a credible contributor to student funding policy.
- Member insights inform UA advice and advocacy.
- Strong stakeholder relationships support effective engagement.
- Strategic projects are delivered on time and aligned with UA priorities.
- Research produces practical, policy-relevant recommendations.
- UA responds quickly to emerging reform developments.
Personal attributes
- Sound judgement, integrity
- and political awareness.
- Strategic, practical and solutions focused.
- Collaborative and relationship oriented.
- Credible and clear in communication.
- Responsive to shifting priorities.
What we offer:
- Competitive salary with options for 12%, 15.4% or 17% super depending on preference
- Flexible hybrid work model, including remote days and core-hours scheduling.
- Salary packaging options that can improve your take home pay
- Generous parental leave entitlements
- FREE annual flu vaccinations
- FREE parking
- Access to free guidance and counselling through our Employee Assistance Program
- A vibrant, inclusive culture.
Universities Australia welcomes people from all backgrounds and values the different experiences, perspectives and strengths each person brings. We strongly encourage applications from First Nations people, LGBTQIA+ people, people of all ages, neurodivergent people, people with disability, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Additional Information
Interstate residents will be considered for this role noting that travel will be expected from time to time.
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Senior Advisor: Student Funding and Success in Canberra employer: Universities Australia
Universities Australia is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that values diverse perspectives and experiences. With a competitive salary and flexible hybrid work model, employees enjoy generous benefits including parental leave, salary packaging options, and access to free counselling services. This role not only provides opportunities for professional growth within the national higher education sector but also allows you to engage directly with member universities across Australia, making a meaningful impact on public policy and advocacy.
