Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
Senior Policy Officer
To create liveable, inclusive, and sustainable communities based on our collective experience and expertise.
Legal
Full-time
Office | Melbourne, VIC, Australia
Visa sponsorship · No
Senior · A role for someone with advanced knowledge and skills. May involve mentoring, leading others or specialisation. Typically at least 5 years of experience.
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Why Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
Victoria has set an ambitious climate action agenda with a strong focus on establishing a renewable energy sector, reducing emissions and preparing for a future with less water.
At the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, we will lead this exciting work, bringing together the energy, environment, climate action, water, agriculture and resources portfolios, in addition to its vital role in emergency management.
We are working to meet strong targets to halve emissions by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050.
About the role
The Senior Policy Officer plays a critical role in the development and delivery of several complex subordinate instruments, policy and administrative practices for a new regulatory framework for mineral and extractive resources industries. The new framework, set to commence on 1 July 2027, will operationalise amendments introduced by the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Amendment (MRSDA) Act 2023. The reform presents a major overhaul of the regulatory framework, shifting it away from more prescriptive regulation towards a contemporary statutory duty model. The new framework is expected to generate significant industry, community and environmental benefits and support sustainable development of the resources sector.
Working as part of a team, the Senior Policy Officer ensures the reforms are well designed, properly informed, and understood.
Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
* Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the processes that guide how legislation, regulations and other statutory instruments are made in Victoria. * Strong stakeholder management and teamwork skills with the ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders and colleagues. * Comprehensive research and analytical skills with a demonstrated ability to develop innovative solutions to complex policy issues. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills with experience in preparing Cabinet submissions, Ministerial briefs, and reports to senior management. * A tertiary qualification in natural resource management, economics, law, planning and environment, public policy or another relevant field is mandatory.
These are fixed term positions available for a period until 30 June 2026. The work location for these positions is 8 Nicholson Street with hybrid work arrangements available.
To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.
For further information please refer to the attached position description.
Applications close at midnight on Tuesday, 15th April 2025.
Other Relevant Information
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check.
To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.
A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace
DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave.
What you'll be responsible for
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Legal Research
Conduct legal and factual research to collate findings, and inform business and legal decisions.
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Legal Operations
Review laws and standards to implement, update and maintain the organization’s policies, standards, and procedures.
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Legal Advisory and Risk Management
Advise on the whole spectrum of legal matters that apply to the business and its offerings.
Skills you'll need
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Negotiation
Persuades others to shift their views and/or behaviours with the goal of reaching consensus
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Critical thinking
Identifies and synthesizes patterns and trends amongst various sources of information to reach a meaningful conclusion, perspective or insight
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Attention to detail
Accurately identifies and rectifies discrepancies or errors that exists in information and deliverables