Empower Your Climate Career: A 60-Second Glimpse into the Climate Change Authority 🌱
Ever wondered what it’s like to shape Australia’s future in the face of climate change? Look no further. Below is a swift, all-in-one breakdown of the Climate Change Authority (CCA)—from its key functions and finances to the skills and qualifications that can help you land a role. Whether you’re a seasoned public servant or a fresh graduate, this overview gives you the clarity you need to take the next step in your Government career.
AT-A-GLANCE:
Name of Department / Council: Climate Change Authority
Location: Primarily Canberra-based (with staff across several Australian states)
CEO: Brad Archer
Total Revenue: Approximately $13.4 million (2023–24 financial year)
Total Number of Employees: Around 67 (including the CEO)
THE QUALIFICATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, TRADES, PROFESSIONS, WORK EXPERIENCES & SKILLS MOST SUITED TO
Top 5 academic qualifications most suited:
Environmental Science – Understand climate science and environmental impacts to inform policy.
Economics / Finance – Conduct cost-benefit analyses of initiatives and oversee funding of major projects.
Public Policy / Law – Shape and draft legislation, offering rigorous frameworks for climate action.
Data Analytics / Statistics – Provide evidence-based insights for emissions tracking and forecasting.
Communications / Media – Translate complex research into approachable content for stakeholders and the public.
Top 5 certifications most suited:
Project Management (e.g. PRINCE2, PMP) – Coordinate multifaceted projects on climate strategy and reporting.
Accounting / Financial Certifications (e.g. CPA, CA) – Manage budgets, audits, and financial oversight of climate programs.
Business Analysis (e.g. IIBA certifications) – Optimize processes and inform strategic decision-making.
IT / Digital Certifications – Build and maintain software and databases crucial for data-intensive projects.
Policy Officer Capability Credentials – Hone your policy-drafting skills and strengthen subject-matter expertise.
Top 5 trades / professions most suited:
Policy Officer – Draft and refine government environmental policies and directives.
Data Analyst / Scientist – Interpret emissions data and produce forecasting models.
Communications Specialist – Craft targeted messages and media content on climate findings.
Financial / Business Manager – Oversee procurement, budgeting, and program resources.
Project Manager – Drive cross-team collaboration to ensure smooth delivery of climate projects.
Top 5 skills most suited:
Analytical Thinking – Interpret and connect climate data with legislative requirements.
Collaboration – Engage effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external stakeholders.
Policy Research & Writing – Produce evidence-based reports and guidance for decision-makers.
Stakeholder Engagement – Maintain transparent dialogue with communities, industries, and government bodies.
Problem-Solving – Tackle complex environmental challenges with innovative approaches.
Top 5 work experiences most suited:
Public Sector Policy / Advisory Roles – Master the nuances of government processes and climate directives.
Academic Research – Translate research findings into actionable policy.
Consultancy / Private Sector Projects – Apply project management skills to large-scale initiatives and evaluations.
NGO / Community Service – Bring grassroots insights and a community-focused approach to policy design.
Project Delivery & Coordination – Keep initiatives on track, within scope, and on budget.
THE KEY FACTS
Name of Department: Climate Change Authority (CCA)
Name of CEO: Brad Archer
Location: Australia-wide, with a headquarters in Canberra
Year Founded: 2011
Main mission and purpose of the department:
The CCA provides independent, evidence-based advice to guide Australia’s response to climate change—focusing on rapid emissions reductions, policy effectiveness, and economic prosperity during the net zero transition. For instance, they regularly review and recommend improvements to national climate legislation, ensuring policies align with global best practices.Main duties of the department:
Conduct statutory reviews of pivotal climate-related laws and programs
Produce advice for annual parliamentary statements on climate progress
Undertake targeted research on emission trends and climate adaptation
Offer evidence-based policy recommendations to accelerate sustainable development
Example in action: CCA’s reviews have helped refine carbon credit initiatives and update national greenhouse reporting methods—directly impacting Australian industries, communities, and legislators.
Key Projects, Key Strategic Priorities, Future Plans and Initiatives:
Reviews of the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act (NGER) and the Carbon Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative) Act
Annual progress reports on Australia’s emission reduction targets
Sector-specific strategies to guide Australia’s net zero transition (energy, transport, agriculture, etc.)
Collaboration across government and industry to foster innovation in climate solutions
Did you know?
The authority’s approximate $13.4 million funding underpins in-depth analysis and wide-ranging consultations each year, ensuring policies are both scientifically sound and practically feasible.
THE EMPLOYEES & REVENUE
Total Number of Employees: Roughly 67, including the CEO
Total Number of Employees at each pay level:
APS (various bands)
Executive Level (EL1, EL2)
Senior Executive Service (SES)
Levels range from operational roles (e.g., data entry or administrative support) up to high-level managerial and policy positions.
Salary Bands:
APS entry-level roles start from approximately $57k–$78k annually
EL levels range above $90k up to and beyond $200k for senior positions (including allowances)
Average salary in the department:
Typically aligns with mid-range APS salaries, with higher pay brackets available for specialized policy or technical expertise.Total Revenue: Around $13.4 million
Average Revenue per Employee: About $200,000 (total revenue divided by total staff)
GETTING A JOB AT THE CLIMATE CHANGE AUTHORITY
(Job ads often include keywords like “APS Careers,” “Government Jobs Australia,” “Climate Policy Officer,” or “Emissions Reporting Specialist.”)
Which academic subjects are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Certificate / Diploma Level:
Environmental Management, Business Administration, Community Engagement
Helps with project coordination, stakeholder outreach, and event logistics.
Bachelor / Master Level:
Climate Science, Economics, Public Policy, Law, Data Analytics
Prepares you for robust policy analysis, legislative drafting, and advanced data modelling.
PhDs:
Advanced Environmental Science, Climate Modelling, Public Administration
Ideal for leading major research projects and guiding national policy frameworks.
Which trades and professions are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Policy Officers, Economists, Data Analysts, Communications Specialists, Financial Managers
These roles help shape legislation, manage budgets, engage the public, and interpret core climate data.
Which work experiences are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Government Policy Development – Deep familiarity with legislative processes.
Academic / Research – Strong analysis, publication, and evidence-based reporting skills.
Community or NGO Projects – Practical insights into local and grassroots climate needs.
Private Sector / Consultancy – Expert project management and stakeholder coordination.
Project Delivery – Proven track record of guiding initiatives to completion on time and within budget.
Which skills are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Soft skills:
Collaboration – Work hand-in-hand with diverse teams across government and industry.
Communication – Break down complex climate data into relatable terms.
Critical Thinking – Weigh evidence carefully to produce balanced policy recommendations.
Technical skills:
Emissions Modelling – Translate raw data into actionable climate insights.
Data Analytics – Identify trends, outliers, and forecast implications.
Legal / Policy Drafting – Develop compelling, compliant legislation and guidelines.
General skills:
Time Management – Meet tight deadlines amid evolving policy demands.
Research Methods – Ensure thorough, credible findings.
Stakeholder Engagement – Build trust with communities, interest groups, and other government agencies.
Which hobbies and interests align with the work of this department?
Following Scientific Journals & Policy Briefs – Stay plugged into emerging research.
Community Volunteering – Develop local project insights and connect with grassroots voices.
Tech Innovation / Coding – Explore new tools for data visualization and analytics.
Sustainability Projects – Practice what you preach by lowering your own carbon footprint.
WANT MORE INFORMATION ON THIS DEPARTMENT?
Contact the Climate Change Authority:
Address: Climate Change Authority, GPO Box 787, Canberra ACT 2601
Telephone: 1800 475 869
Email: enquiries@climatechangeauthority.gov.au
Website: www.climatechangeauthority.gov.au
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