Is this course right for you?
This course is designed for public servants who already have some experience in policy work and want to strengthen the quality, clarity and impact of their policy writing.
It may be right for you if you:
- Prepare or review policy documents, briefing notes or Cabinet submissions
- Need to explain complex policy ideas clearly and persuasively
- Write for senior leaders, executives or decision-makers
- Want to improve the structure, clarity and purpose of your policy documents
- Are moving into a more senior policy, advisory or management role
What you’ll explore
This workshop is designed to help participants refine and enhance their policy writing skills. This course focuses on the key elements of effective policy writing, the range of policy documents commonly used, and how to explain complex ideas clearly.
- The purpose and role of different policy documents
- How to assess and improve briefing notes, Cabinet submissions and other policy documents
- When different policy documents are useful and how they can be strengthened
- Principles of clear, persuasive and purposeful policy writing
- Writing conventions and expectations in the public sector
- Practical exercises and case studies to apply learning immediately
Benefits to You and Your Organisation
- Identify the features of strong policy writing
- Choose the right document style for the purpose and audience
- Structure policy documents clearly and logically
- Explain complex policy ideas in plain language
- Critique and improve policy documents
- apply public sector writing conventions with greater confidence
- produce clearer, more useful policy advice
Should Attend
This course is aimed at public servants in mid-career/senior roles, such as policy managers, senior policy advisors, and senior managers, seeking to develop and improve their policy skills.
Which policy course is right for you?
| Course |
Best for |
Level |
| Introduction to Public Policy |
New to Policy |
Foundation |
| Writing Policy: The Basics |
Starting to write policy documents |
Developing |
| Advanced Policy Writing |
Experienced policy professionals |
Advanced |
| Understanding the Cabinet Submission |
Staff involved in Cabinet-related processes |
Advanced |
**For groups of five or more, IPAA SA can tailor the training to suit your organisation. Group bookings may also be eligible for a preferential rate. Complete the form, and our team will be in touch to discuss options. **
Learn about our speakers
Tim O’Loughlin
Lecturer, College of Business, Government and Law
Flinders University
Tim's professional life started as a political staffer, culminating in his appointment as chief-of-staff to Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs. This was followed by 15 years in commercial roles in the petroleum sector. He then worked for another 15 years in four different roles in the South Australian Government public service. The last two of these roles were as CEO of the Department of Transport and Urban Development and as Commissioner for Renewable Energy. Tim has been teaching in university public policy schools for the past 12 years.
Upcoming course availability
In person
May 2026
Tuesday, 19 May 2026
Format
Face-to-face
Duration
9:00am - 4:00pm (8:45am registration)
Inclusions
Workbook, resources, refreshments, morning tea and lunch
Location
Level 6, 12 Pirie Street, Adelaide SA 5000
(please refer to course reminder email sent closer to course date)
View map
Costs
Personal Member $575
State Govt Employee Member $615
Corporate Member $625
Non-member $725
