Senior Policy Leader – Legislation & Reform

Work Initiatives; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

DGS is seeking a Principal Policy Officer in Melbourne to lead the development and delivery of high-quality legislative and regulatory reform proposals. You will provide authoritative legal policy advice, draft Cabinet submissions, and guide cross‑departmental teams to ensure timely delivery within budget and quality standards.

You will apply your deep knowledge of statutory frameworks to lead in complex policy areas, develop portfolio expertise, and foster collaboration across staff and

Qualifications

• High-level knowledge of public policy, law and procedure, including consumer, renters or local government issues.
• Proven experience leading complex policy projects in government or legislative settings and drafting legislative instruments.
• Ability to identify key messages, influence decision-makers and tailor content for diverse audiences.
• Ability to foster collaboration across teams and external stakeholders to achieve policy outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Provide high quality, authoritative advice to senior executives and government on policy issues and priorities.
• Lead projects and direct policy officers in producing policy products (Cabinet submissions, parliamentary docs, briefs, regulations, RIAs/RIS) for varied audiences.
• Apply advanced policy expertise in regulatory environments, with program management, risk mitigation and interdependencies.
• Collaborate to build a positive team culture aligned with VPS values, supporting innovation and diversity.
• Contribute expertise to strategic planning and decision-making processes.
• Initiate and manage internal and external stakeholder consultations to secure commitment and timely delivery.
• Work with Regulatory Policy colleagues and participate in flexible working arrangements.

Skills

Public policy knowledge

Legal/regulatory knowledge

Policy and project leadership

Communication with impact

Collaborative working

Job description

DGS is seeking a Principal Policy Officer in Melbourne to lead the development and delivery of high-quality legislative and regulatory reform proposals. You will provide authoritative legal policy advice, draft Cabinet submissions, and guide cross‑departmental teams to ensure timely delivery within budget and quality standards.

You will apply your deep knowledge of statutory frameworks to lead in complex policy areas, develop portfolio expertise, and foster collaboration across staff and