Max Netterfield is a politics and international relations graduate with professional experience
across Australian federal, territory and local government, as well as the private sector. He
graduated from the University of Canberra in 2025 with a Bachelor of Politics and
International Relations and holds a Certificate IV in Legal Services from the Canberra
Institute of Technology. His professional experience includes working for Senator Michaelia
Cash in 2023, Yass Valley Council in 2023, and the ACT Legislative Assembly in 2024.
During this period, he also organised an event with the United States Embassy focused on
AUKUS and Australia’s strategic relationship with the United States. Since 2025, Max has
worked in the private sector with Axiom Associates in internal auditing, developing
experience in governance, risk and accountability.
Max has attended Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) events since March
2023 and has a strong interest in international affairs, Australian foreign and defence policy,
strategic studies and geopolitics. He particularly values the opportunity to engage with
diplomats, academics, policymakers and practitioners and to consider how international
developments affect Australia’s national interests. In 2026, he began publishing essays
through Substack on Australian defence policy, international security, geopolitics and
Australia’s changing strategic environment. Max is keen to become more actively involved
with the AIIA and contribute to its activities while continuing to develop his knowledge and
understanding of international affairs
