Head of Government Relations

Job Status: Full Time Ongoing

Salary: Base salary of $170596 per annum plus 12% Superannuation Contributions

Applications Close: Friday 26 June 2026 11:55pm

Role Enquires:

Online Application Support: Frequently Asked Questions

An organisation where diversity of thought and experience is valued supported and respected.

THE HOUSE

The Sydney Opera House occupies a unique place in the cultural landscape. A globally recognised icon synonymous with inspiration and imagination its one of the worlds busiest performing arts centres the nations premier tourism destination and a World Heritage masterpiece that belongs to the people of NSW. Driving this incredible place is a team of passionate and dedicated people. Join us in shaping the Opera Houses future and be provided with opportunities to grow and develop while making a positive contribution to our community.

The Opera House is a living work of art. A place of possibility and wonder on and off the stage. We bring people together to be uplifted empowered and entertained. As set out in the Sydney Opera House Strategy 2024-2026 our ambition is to be Everyones House. To make this real we are focused on four themes that underpin our organisational values (Creativity Courage Inclusivity Integrity Collaboration and Care):

• Everyone feels welcome here.
• We better understand and connect with the community.
• We are future ready.
• We lead and inspire positive change.
  

For more information about the Sydney Opera House please refer to our website.

YOUR NEW ROLE

This role is responsible for strategic leadership for the Opera Houses government relations strategic advocacy and intergovernmental engagement functions. The role is responsible for shaping and advancing the Opera Houses strategic positioning across all levels of government strengthening the organisations influence within the cultural economic and public policy landscape and securing long-term government support and investment.

Further detailed information about the role and its requirements can be obtained from the role description.

ARE YOU THE ONE

Key Responsibilities/skills:

• Lead the development and delivery of the Opera Houses government relations strategy building strong partnerships across Local State and Federal Government.
• Represent the organisation at senior government and industry forums shaping cultural policy and influencing decision-making.
• Drive strategic organisation-wide initiatives on government policy regulation and emerging sector issues to achieve business outcomes.
• Develop and execute government funding investment and partnership strategies including State Budget bids and grant applications.
• Oversee high-quality submissions briefings and responses to government enquiries and policy initiatives.
• Ensure timely accurate government reporting and documentation including ministerial briefs and key corporate plans.
• Build and manage strategic stakeholder relationships to strengthen the Opera Houses profile and influence.
• Provide strategic counsel to executive leadership on government relations and policy matters.
  

THE PERKS

The Sydney Opera House give you access to a fantastic range of benefits including:

• 10% off onsite food and beverage outlets like Opera Bar and First Nations restaurant Midden.
• 5 weeks annual leave for all ongoing and temporary staff.
• Access to salary packaging and discounted health insurance.
• Access to a range of professional development programs and staff engagement initiatives.
• Staff community groups like SOH Pride First Nations Staff Network Sustainable Environmental Action Leaders (SEALs) and more.
• Fitness Passport and complimentary wellbeing programs including pilates yoga circuit classes physiotherapy sessions as well as other wellbeing initiatives.
• Working for an organisation with a 6 Star Green Star performance rating from the Green Building Council of Australia.
• Working for an organisation committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the worlds first arts organisation to join the UNs Global Compact an international sustainability initiative designed to build a better future for us all.
• Complimentary tickets to shows.
• And many more!

EQUITY AND INCLUSION

The Opera House is an inclusive employer that recognises everyone is unique. The organisation welcomes you for who you are as you are. So if you require any adjustments to the recruitment process please contact us as to discuss. Even if you think youd be a great fit but dont necessarily tick every box in the role description please get in touch.

We welcome and encourage applications from First Nations people recognising the value unique skills and knowledge that First Nations employees bring to the workplace. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all genders people who are d/Deaf and/or with disability from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds neurodiverse refugees and the LGBTQIA community.

NEED TO WORK FLEXIBLY

We know flexibility means different things to different people so let us know how we can support you to be your best.

SOUND LIKE YOU APPLY NOW

Please submit your cover letter and CV via our online addition you will be prompted to answer the two following targeted questions in the online application platform.
Please note 2000 character limit.

1. Describe a time when you successfully influenced a policy outcome or strategic Government decision-making
2. Describe a complex Government priority or policy that you have implemented within an organisation involving multiple stakeholders and agendas.

To be eligible to apply for this position applicants must have existing Australian work rights. Any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory National Police Check and Pre-Employment Health Assessment. The assessment seeks information only relevant to performing the inherent requirements of the job it remains strictly confidential and applicants will be informed of the result.

A talent pool may be created for future ongoing and temporary roles and is valid for a period of up to 18 months.

Your personal information is being collected to enable the Sydney Opera House to assess your suitability for appointment to the position you have applied for. This personal information will be managed in accordance with the Sydney Opera House Privacy Management Policy and Plan.

Applications will not be accepted from recruitment agencies.