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How to Become A Political Staffer

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What is a Political Staffer

A political staffer is your gateway to working at the heart of Australian democracy. These professionals work directly for elected officials, providing advice, managing communications, and driving policy. At the federal level, staffers are hired under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act 1984. This dynamic, fast-paced career lets you make a real difference to your community.

Day-to-day, political staffers draft speeches, prepare briefing notes, and research policy issues. They manage media relationships and set up public events for their minister or MP. They also meet with stakeholders, including community groups, industry reps, and public servants. Every day brings new challenges and the chance to influence decisions that matter.

The hours can be long, especially during election campaigns or major legislative debates. But the rewards are real. You gain insider experience of how government works. You build a network that can open doors for years to come.

Getting started usually means completing a relevant degree and getting active in a political party. Most entry-level roles go to people who have already volunteered or interned in a political office. If you love politics and thrive under pressure, this career could be perfect for you.

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Career Outlook for Political Staffer

A career as a political staffer is fast-paced and influential. Most people who enter this field are in their mid-to-late 20s when they land their first role. Many come from university or from volunteering in a political party. Working hours average 50 to 60 per week during parliamentary sittings and election campaigns.

Job security depends on political outcomes, but demand for skilled staffers stays relatively steady. Australia currently has about 2,000 federal political, ministerial, and electorate staff (ABC News, 2024). Personal staff numbers have grown by around 50 per cent since 2007 (Australian Parliamentary Library, 2024). Competition for senior roles is strong, but those with a solid reputation are well placed to advance.

Looking ahead, the political staffer workforce is expected to stay in demand. Governments will continue to need skilled communicators and policy advisers at all levels. The role is a strong launchpad for careers in policy leadership, senior government, or the private sector. Passionate, driven, and adaptable graduates will find real opportunity here.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Political Staffer

Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree in political science, law, or public policy

Enrol in a Bachelor of Arts (Political Science), Bachelor of Laws, or Bachelor of Public Policy at an Australian university. These programs take 3 to 4 years full-time. They cover constitutional law, policy analysis, government processes, and public administration. Most employers expect a relevant degree as a minimum entry requirement.

Step 2: Get active in a political party and volunteer for campaigns

Join a political party and volunteer for branch activities, local campaigns, and candidate offices. Most political staffers secure their first role through party networks and personal relationships. Volunteering builds practical skills in communications, event logistics, and stakeholder engagement. Start this step during your degree to gain an advantage when applying.

Step 3: Secure an internship or entry-level role in a political office

Apply for internships or entry-level positions such as electorate officer, research assistant, or assistant adviser. Look for these roles in parliamentary or ministerial offices, government departments, or think tanks. These positions build core skills including policy research, briefing writing, and stakeholder liaison. Aim to spend 1 to 2 years in entry-level roles before seeking a more senior position.

Step 4: Add a postgraduate qualification in public policy or political management

A Master of Public Policy at an Australian university typically takes 1 to 2 years full-time. A Master of Public Administration is another strong option with a similar timeframe. Both programs deepen your knowledge of policy design, government finance, and strategic communications. Postgraduate credentials strengthen your case for senior adviser and chief of staff roles.

Step 5: Build your reputation and advance to senior advisory roles

Political staffers advance on the strength of their judgement, discretion, and results. Build a reputation for reliability and sound advice within your political network. Senior roles such as senior adviser or chief of staff require several years of demonstrated performance. Joining the Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) supports your professional growth through events, training, and peer networks.

What does a Political Staffer do?

A political staffer’s day is never the same twice. You might draft a speech in the morning, then attend a stakeholder briefing after lunch. In the afternoon, you could prep your minister for a press interview. The core tasks include researching policy issues, writing briefing notes, managing media relations, and running public appearances. You will also meet with interest groups, public servants, and constituents to keep the minister well informed. Quick thinking and clear communication are non-negotiable in this role.

Tasks

Political staffers are the people who keep a political office running. They provide research, advice, and communications support that helps elected officials do their jobs. The role is as much about people skills as it is about policy knowledge. If you enjoy variety and fast-paced work, this career will keep you engaged every day.

  • Researching and analysing policy issues for the minister or MP
  • Drafting speeches, briefing notes, and media releases
  • Managing media relations and coordinating press inquiries
  • Coordinating public events and ministerial appearances
  • Meeting with stakeholders including community groups and industry representatives
  • Advising on electoral and political strategy
  • Monitoring news and political developments to flag key issues
  • Supporting the minister during parliamentary sittings

Skills for Success

To thrive as a political staffer, you need a mix of communication, research, and people skills. Strong writing is a must. You will draft speeches, briefs, and media statements on a daily basis. You also need to think fast and stay calm when political events shift quickly.

Good people skills are essential for managing stakeholder relationships. You will meet with community groups, industry reps, and public servants on a regular basis. Being adaptable, resilient, and organised will help you manage a demanding workload. Political acumen is the final piece of the puzzle.

Skills & Attributes

  • Written and verbal communication
  • Policy research and analysis
  • Strategic thinking
  • Media relations and communications management
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Understanding of political processes
  • Policy development and review
  • Briefing and report writing
  • Time management and prioritisation
  • Adaptability under pressure
  • Discretion and professional judgement
  • Attention to detail
  • Networking and relationship building
  • Political acumen

Average Salaries

The average yearly salary for a political staffer in Australia varies significantly by role and seniority. Entry-level electorate officers typically earn around $65,000 per year. Senior advisers to ministers earn between $145,000 and $295,000 per year under the Enterprise Agreement 2024-27 (source: ABC News, August 2024). A broad average across all levels is around $110,000 per year.

min $65 K

max $250 K

av $110 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson
Laura Atkinson

Explore career guides by Laura Atkinson. Practical how-to-become advice on qualifications, skills, salary and job outlook across Australia.