Senior Governance Specialist
Full-Time
Total Package $161,230.72 per annum (inclusive of superannuation)
($143,956.00 base, plus $17,274.72 Superannuation)
- Play a key role in a team of highly skilled governance and procurement experts.
- A unique opportunity to advocate for our Local Government Members.
- Sector leading 6 week's annual leave and a highly inclusive and collaborative working environment.
Are you a seasoned governance professional seeking your next challenge in a highly interesting and varied role? Are you motivated by the opportunity to apply your expertise and make a genuine meaningful contribution?
WALGA is the authoritative voice and trusted partner for Western Australian Local Governments, and we are seeking a Senior Governance Specialist to join our Governance and Procurement team. The WALGA Governance and Procurement Team is a crucial pillar in providing our Members with essential information, advice, resources, and services relating to Governance and Procurement practices.
As a key player in this dynamic team, this role will be instrumental in assisting our Manager Governance and Procurement to ensure our Local Governments stay informed and supported in meeting their complex and changing legislative responsibilities.
Aiming to enhance their appreciation and understanding of good governance, you will offer expert advice to bolster legislative compliance, governance standards, and best practices.
What does a typical week look like?
Providing practical written and verbal guidance to Local Governments and internally within WALGA, you will focus on the application of the Local Government Act, Regulations, Local Laws, and associated legislation. This will include assisting Members in developing, adopting, reviewing, and implementing governance practices such as delegations, policies, and local laws, and offering advice on better practice procurement to support their technical, budgetary, governance, and compliance needs.
You will develop, maintain, and promote our online resources while taking the lead as a subject matter expert in creating governance-oriented training resources for Council Members and Local Government employees.
Training and capacity building are also critical components of this role, providing the opportunity to represent WALGA in various internal and external forums, including WALGA Zone meetings, conferences, workshops, and working groups. Additionally, you will oversee monthly member communications, along with supporting WALGA's internal stakeholders by assessing and advising on advocacy proposals and state government legislative changes.
As the Local Government Act reform process continues, you will play a lead role in the Governance and Procurement Team’s efforts to analyse regulations, influence consultation and engagement processes, and support Local Governments to adapt to the changes.
So, when we say that this is a highly interesting and varied role that directly Influences the sector, we genuinely mean it!
Enough about us. Let’s talk about you.
Extensive experience in a governance role within Local Government is essential for success in this position. While a tertiary qualification in Law is highly desirable, it is secondary to demonstrated practical expertise in Local Government governance. You will have a thorough understanding of the Local Government Act and the broader legislative framework in which Local Governments operate, as well as an appreciation of legislative development and drafting process.
You will possess excellent policy development, research, and analytical skills, and combine high standards of written communication with strong interpersonal abilities.
You are proactive, organised and solutions-focused and thrive in a fast-paced environment that has a team collaboration mindset and are looking for a position where your expertise will make a real impact.
As this position is required to travel throughout the State to visit member Local Governments, this role requires a valid class ‘C’ drivers license.
Why you’ll love working here
In addition to this rare career opportunity, you’ll also get 6 weeks’ (30 days) annual leave and an extra day to celebrate your work anniversary every year. We understand that everyone has a life outside of work, so we provide our employees with flexible working options too.
We pride ourselves on offering a safe and inclusive culture with fantastic workplace benefits and entitlements, including setting budget aside for professional development. What we are most proud of is getting the chance to work on niche projects, with some incredibly talented people, on issues that matter.
WALGA's HQ in West Leederville is centrally located within easy reach of public transport, bike paths and paid parking options. We also provide excellent end of trip facilities for those arriving by alternate methods of transport. Our Thrive wellbeing program means you’ll get to enjoy regular activities and initiatives (in fact we could be at a healthy mind seminar or a enjoying a fitness initiative whilst you’re reading this.) We also have an active social club to cater for all interests, including a book club and trivia nights to name a few.
We’re also committed to being a Menopause Friendly Australia employer.
Who are we?
The Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) is an independent, member-based, not-for-profit organisation representing and supporting the WA Local Government sector.
Our membership includes all 139 Local Governments in the State. WALGA uses its influence, support, and expertise to deliver better outcomes for WA Local Governments and their communities. We do this through effective advocacy to all levels of Government on behalf of our members, and by the provision of expert advice, services, and support to Local Governments.
WALGA’s vision is for agile and inclusive Local Governments enhancing community wellbeing and enabling economic prosperity.
To find out more please visit
www.walga.asn.au
Interested? Apply now
If this sounds like the role you have been looking for, we’d love to hear from you.
- Please include a two-page maximum cover letter that outlines what sets you apart, and why this opportunity would be a great career move for you.
- If you have questions that can’t be found in this ad or the position description, please contact Felicity Morris - Manager Governance and Procurement on (08) 9213 2093.
- Applications will close 12:00pm Thursday, 23 October 2025. We may commence interviews upon receipt and reserve the right to close the position early.
- To view the position description please visit our careers page.
- WALGA encourages people from different backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and people with disabilities.
- We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all candidates. If you have any specific needs or require accommodations to participate fully in the interview process, please let us know. This could include, but is not limited to, accessibility requirements, assistive technologies, or any other considerations
- Applications via email will not be accepted. As this role is being sourced directly by WALGA, we respectfully request no agencies approach.
