Government professionals play a crucial role in the functioning of society by shaping policies that impact everyday lives in areas such as finance, emergency services, primary industries, defence and transport.
For students with a science education, this can serve as a distinct advantage in the government and policy industry.
Scientific education trains individuals with analytical and critical thinking skills, a strong foundation in research methodologies, and the ability to assess complex data. In a policy context, these skills are important for understanding complex issues, such as healthcare, environmental sustainability, and technological innovation.
As the demand for fair decision-making grows, science students are increasingly sought after to contribute their expertise to the dynamic landscape of government and policy.
Expected annual average salary $110,000 - $125,000 (Source: Seek, 2026)
A policy advisor plays an important role in government by providing strategic guidance and expert advice to policymakers.
These professionals are responsible for analysing and interpreting information relevant to specific policy areas.
Policy advisors work with a variety of stakeholders to help them gather insights from different perspectives. Stakeholders can include government officials, industry representatives, researchers, and the public.
A science graduate is well-suited for this role, with strong analytical skills and efficient reporting, essential for navigating the complex landscape of policy formulation.
Expected annual average salary $130,000 (Source: Payscale, 2026)
An intellectual property (IP) specialist is a legal guardian of innovation.
IP professionals navigate the complex legal landscape of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets, ensuring inventors, artists, and businesses get the protection they deserve.
Professionals in this role can find roles in a science-related capacity, such as working with pharmaceutical companies or medical organisations in protecting the company's innovations in a new drug or medical technologies. IP Specialists then work closely with an organisation to ensure the uniqueness and patentability of innovations and assist with patent applications.
A science graduate can excel in this career path by leveraging their analytical skills, reporting efficiency and overall scientific knowledge.
Expected annual average salary $86,386 (Source: Indeed, 2026)
Organisations hire project officers to tackle a scope of work, leveraging their specialised skills and experience. Project officers ensure project activities are coordinated and managed effectively, driving the team towards project completion.
Typical responsibilities of a project officer can include tasks such as managing deadlines and resources, conducting research and generating reports, and overseeing document control. These responsibilities demand a meticulous and detail-oriented approach which are exercised in a science education.
Project officers may find themselves employed in various government sectors, working in offices across different departments or agencies.
Examples of potential employers include government agencies and organisations such as:
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