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How to become a policy & planning manager

Research, plan and direct strategic policy and planning advice for organisations.

What does a policy and planning manager do?

Policy and planning managers research, plan and direct strategic policy and planning advice for organisations. They should have a superior understanding of organisational needs, relevant legislative materials and long-term plans for the organisation.

Duties and tasks

  • Develop strategies for implementing activity and creating accountability.

  • Direct and assist in developing policy documents and reports.

  • Facilitate negotiations on behalf of the organisation, as well as at events and seminars to discourse about policy issues.

  • Implement and oversee policy research and analysis programs.

  • Implement policies and practices, assigning employees to associated tasks.

  • Serve as a reference and expert in the field on policy, program and legislative matters, working with government officials and stakeholders.

  • Work with other Managers and Board Members to outline goals and objectives and develop strategic plans, programs and policies to meet those objectives.

Industry bodies

Related jobs

  • Policy advisor

  • Policy analyst

  • Political scientist

  • Project support officer

  • Project and program administrator

  • Research officer

  • Research and development manager

  • University lecturer

Discover related degrees

Macquarie University

Master of Strategy and Security

PostgraduateMAQ-STS-MAS

Prepare to lead in high-stakes security environments

Specialise in advanced defence strategy, cyber intelligence, or counter-terrorism. Learn from experts in government and industry. Deep dive into threat assessment. Craft innovative policy solutions. Get ready to anticipate and respond to complex global risks.

Study method
100% online
Duration
1 year full time or part time equivalent
Macquarie University

Analyse and influence national stability and resilience

Gain specialist knowledge in defence, security and geopolitics. Build skills to design evidence-based policy. Learn from leaders. Network and collaborate. Graduate prepared for impactful roles in government, defence, or international organisations.

Study method
100% online
Duration
6 months full time or part time equivalent
Griffith University

Master of Public Policy and Leadership

PostgraduateGRF-PPL-MAS

Advance your career as a change-maker

Earn a globally recognised qualification in public sector and policy leadership. Tailor your degree to your career goals by specialising in policy analysis and impact, management and administration, regulation and integrity, or strategy and change.

Study method
100% online
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Griffith University

A double degree in business and politics

Learn the workings of business and government for broad career options in private, public, and not-for-profit sectors. Focus your skills and knowledge with majors including international business, economics, public policy, and more.

Study method
100% online
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Explore public policy courses

Discover related subjects

University of Tasmania

Public Policy

UndergraduateTAS-HPP302

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 6 Jul 2026
Murdoch University

Public Policy Analysis

UndergraduateMUR-POL246

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 27 Jul 2026
La Trobe University

Crime Prevention and Policy

UndergraduateLTU-LCR2003

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 2 Mar 2026
Griffith University

Solving Policy Problems

UndergraduateGRF-GIR301

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 13 Jul 2026

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