The Faculty of Business, Government and Law (BGL) at the University of Canberra stands as a beacon for professionals passionate about shaping public policy, business innovation, and legal frameworks in Australia's political heartland. Nestled in Bruce, Canberra, this faculty offers a dynamic environment where staff contribute directly to national conversations through teaching, research, and partnerships with government entities. With its motto 'Working with governments and for society,' BGL attracts ambitious individuals eager to blend academic rigor with real-world impact. Whether you're an emerging lecturer eyeing tenure-track positions or a seasoned administrator seeking a collaborative hub, working here promises proximity to power—literally, with Parliament House just a short drive away.
Established as part of the University of Canberra's commitment to practical education, BGL serves over 3,500 students across undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Its strategic location amplifies opportunities, allowing staff to guest lecture from federal policymakers or collaborate on projects using data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. This integration of theory and practice defines daily life, fostering a culture where ideas influence legislation and business strategies.
Understanding the Structure and Mission of BGL
The Faculty of Business, Government and Law is thoughtfully organized into three schools and two specialized research centres, each driving the overarching mission. The Canberra Business School focuses on commerce, accounting, finance, marketing, and management, preparing graduates—and staff—for roles in dynamic corporate landscapes. Meanwhile, the Canberra Law School emphasizes practical legal training in areas like corporate law, human rights, and environmental regulation, often drawing on live cases from nearby courts.
The School of Government and Policy (also known as Canberra School of Government) delves into politics, economics, public administration, and policy analysis, capitalizing on Canberra's unparalleled access to think tanks and departments. Complementing these are the Centre for Deliberative Democracy and Global Governance, renowned for pioneering citizen engagement models, and the Centre for Environmental Governance, tackling sustainability challenges with interdisciplinary approaches.
Under Executive Dean Professor Uwe Dulleck, the leadership team—including Associate Deans for Education, Research, and Partnerships—ensures alignment with the BGL Strategy 2025-2028. This forward-looking plan emphasizes research-led innovation, equity, and deeper ties with ACT and Commonwealth governments. Staff play pivotal roles in executing this vision, from designing curricula infused with current policy debates to leading grant-funded projects.
This structure not only supports diverse career paths but also encourages cross-school collaborations, such as joint programs on AI ethics in governance or sustainable business practices.
Diverse Career Opportunities in Academic Roles
Academic positions at BGL represent the core of the faculty's intellectual engine. Entry-level roles like Associate Lecturer (Academic Level A) suit PhD graduates or those with strong teaching portfolios, involving course delivery, student supervision, and initial research. Progressing to Lecturer (Level B), professionals teach specialized units—think public policy analysis or corporate finance—while building publication records.
Senior roles, such as Senior Lecturer (Level C), Associate Professor (Level D), and Professor (Level E), demand leadership in research clusters, PhD supervision, and industry engagement. For instance, current openings include Lecturer in Australian Political Studies (Level B, salary $116,403–$137,865 plus 17% superannuation), highlighting demand for expertise in timely areas like electoral systems.
Research-focused positions, including Postdoctoral Fellows and Research Fellows, thrive in the centres. The Centre for Deliberative Democracy, led by experts like Professor John Dryzek, offers projects on global governance innovations, often funded by Australian Research Council grants. Staff here analyze citizen assemblies or deliberative polling, contributing to reports that inform parliamentary committees.
| Academic Level | Typical Responsibilities | Approximate Salary Range (AUD pa + 17% Super) |
|---|---|---|
| Level A: Associate Lecturer | Teaching assistance, basic research | $81,460 – $108,952 |
| Level B: Lecturer | Unit coordination, publications | $116,403 – $137,865 |
| Level C: Senior Lecturer | Research leadership, supervision | $141,391 – $162,019 |
| Level D: Associate Professor | School contributions, grants | $169,090 – $186,421 |
| Level E: Professor | Faculty strategy, international profile | $196,387+ |
These figures, drawn from the University of Canberra Enterprise Agreement 2023-2026, reflect base rates with annual increments and performance-based advancements. Adjunct and Visiting Professor roles provide flexible entry for industry experts.
Professional and Support Staff Positions
Beyond academia, BGL employs professional staff in vital support roles. Faculty Managers like Dr. Sian Hicks oversee operations, while Student Advisors guide enrolments and career planning. Positions such as Senior Student Advisor (UC Level 6, $76,813–$82,687 + super) demand strong interpersonal skills amid a vibrant student cohort.
Other opportunities include Research Project Officers, who manage grants and ethics approvals, and Marketing Coordinators promoting programs like the new Bachelor of Business, Government and Policy (Honours). These roles offer pathways to higher administration, with hybrid work options enhancing appeal.
- Administrative support for school operations
- Industry partnership coordination
- Event management for seminars and policy forums
- IT and data analysis for research labs like the Canberra Behavioural Lab
Hybrid arrangements—blending campus presence with remote flexibility—cater to work-life balance, especially valuable in family-friendly Canberra.
Attractive Remuneration and Comprehensive Benefits
UC competes nationally with robust packages. Beyond competitive salaries, all staff receive 17% superannuation contributions—well above the legislated 11.5%—bolstering retirement savings. Salary packaging allows pre-tax conversions for items like laptops or novated leases, potentially saving thousands annually.
Leave entitlements lead the sector: four weeks annual recreation leave, up to 30 weeks paid parental leave (progressive model), 20 days personal/carer's leave, and unique provisions like 10 days cultural leave for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff or 60 days gender affirmation leave. Professional development is prioritized, with 40 hours annually (pro-rata) for training, conferences, or the Outside Studies Program.
Wellbeing support includes an Employee Assistance Program, on-site medical centre, gym, and flu vaccinations. For academics, research grants and sabbaticals fuel career growth. Relocation allowances aid interstate hires, smoothing transitions to Canberra's high-quality lifestyle.
Thriving in a Research-Intensive Environment
BGL's research ethos empowers staff to address pressing issues. Over 100 active researchers produce outputs in deliberative democracy, environmental policy, and behavioural economics. The Research Impact Showcase documents 20 cases, from influencing Indigenous policy reforms to AI governance frameworks.
Opportunities abound: Summer Research Scholarships for early-career staff, HDR supervision stipends, and collaborations with government via the National Indigenous Australians Agency. Themes like 'responsible technology behaviours' position BGL at the forefront of generative AI ethics, attracting global talent.
This environment suits those passionate about translating scholarship into societal good, with metrics tracking real-world policy uptake.
Leveraging the Canberra Advantage
Canberra's status as home to over 200 embassies and the Australian Public Service (employing 150,000+) offers unmatched perks. Staff network at High Court sittings, ABS briefings, or IP Australia workshops—often integrated into teaching. The city's work-life balance shines: short commutes, nature trails, and cultural hubs like the National Gallery.
UC's Bruce campus fosters community, with events like BGL Research Seminars featuring policymakers. Graduates' 90%+ employment rate reflects this edge, extending to staff via internal mobility and alumni networks.
Insights from Employee Experiences and Culture
Reviews paint a balanced picture. On platforms like Glassdoor (3.7/5 overall), staff praise supportive colleagues, inclusive culture, and meaningful work. 'Friendly teams and hybrid flexibility make it rewarding,' notes one academic. Canberra's lifestyle scores high, with 83 Indeed reviews highlighting work environment.
Challenges include heavy workloads during peak semesters and recent sector restructures affecting morale. Yet, initiatives like equity programs and staff forums address these, promoting transparency. BGL's focus on innovation through inclusion sustains a collaborative vibe, where diverse perspectives—from first-in-family academics to international hires—thrive.
Recent Developments Shaping the Future
BGL evolves rapidly. The 2024 Honours program relaunch equips students (and staff mentors) with policy skills for government roles. The 2025-2028 Strategy, launched by Bill Shorten, targets top-10 Australian ranking via purpose-driven research. Enrolments rose in 2026, signaling stability amid sector pressures.
Emerging foci like AI in public administration and climate governance promise new roles. UC's harmonization with other ACT institutions expands opportunities, positioning BGL staff for leadership in sustainable societies.
Steps to Secure Your Role at BGL
Launch your career via UC Talent Portal. Tailor applications to the 'Canberra factor': highlight policy experience or government internships.
- Review current vacancies and align CV with selection criteria
- Leverage LinkedIn for BGL connections (e.g., Professor Rebekah Russell-Bennett)
- Prepare for interviews emphasizing research impact
- Explore adjunct paths for flexible entry
- Engage via seminars or alumni events
With proactive networking, your expertise can join a faculty driving Australia's future.
In summary, working at the Faculty of Business, Government and Law offers intellectual stimulation, societal impact, and work-life harmony in a premier setting. As BGL advances its ambitious strategy, now is the ideal time to contribute.
Photo by Simon Chen on Unsplash
