Title:  Principal Policy Officer

About Us 

We create thriving places and connected communities. We plan, build and maintain Victoria’s transport, planning and land services. We are committed to a safe, inclusive and high-performing workplace. 

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to creating a safe, inclusive workplace where our people can thrive and do meaningful work. 
  

About the role 

*This is a Fixed Term Position until August 2027*  

The Principal Policy Officer provides strategic and technical advice to improve Victoria’s building, plumbing and architecture regulatory systems. They oversee a range of regulatory projects, helping teams set priorities, manage resources and deliver projects effectively. The role works closely with senior leaders, government agencies, industry, communities and other stakeholders to build support and achieve shared outcomes. They also lead complex projects, prepare high-level advice and briefings, and mentor project leads. Success means delivering well-planned regulatory reforms that address current needs while supporting longer-term improvements across Victoria’s building industry.

What we’re looking for 

You’re someone who:

• Thinks strategically and develops policy – Understands emerging issues, develops strong policy and business case options, and builds support from senior leaders.
• Understands the bigger picture – Recognises how political, organisational and stakeholder changes can affect priorities and outcomes, and responds thoughtfully.
• Influences and communicates effectively – Builds strong relationships, negotiates with stakeholders and explains complex ideas clearly to different audiences.
• Leads projects and delivers outcomes – Turns strategies into practical projects, manages risks and progress, and keeps work focused on achieving results.
• Builds capability and embraces change – Coaches and supports others, encourages collaboration and adapts strategies when priorities or circumstances change.

Click here to access the Position Description. 

Qualifications and experience 

You’ll bring: 

• A tertiary qualification in law or public policy is highly desirable. 
• Experience in the development and amendment of legislation and/or regulations in a State or Commonwealth public service setting is highly desirable.

Pre-employment checks and employment conditions  

Relevant pre-employment screening and reference checks will be required. 

Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position. 

Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply. 

How to apply 

Click the ‘Apply’ button to be redirected to our recruitment platform, where you may need to create an account to submit your application. 

Applications close at 11.59pm on Friday, 2nd October 2026.

Please include both your resume and a cover letter addressing how your experience addresses each of the key selection criteria for the role. All applications must be submitted via the online portal, we’re unable to accept email or manual submissions. 

For further information about the role, please contact Nick Oats – Manager, Building Policy and Regulation via nick.oats@transport.vic.gov.au.

Redeployees  

If you are a VPS redeployee, please state this in your cover letter and include your case manager’s contact details. This helps ensure your redeployment status is appropriately considered. For more information on redeployment, visit the Victorian Government policy here: 
https://www.vic.gov.au/public-sector-industrial-relations-policies-2025/redundancy-redeployment-and-retrenchment 

Important Information 

If you require any adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process or need the advert or attachments in an accessible format (e.g., large print), please contact us. We're here to support you.