Strategy Advisor

Department of Education; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

VECRA is seeking a Strategy Advisor to help shape its regulatory priorities and capability. The role focuses on researching regulatory issues, analysing data, and drawing on national and international research to inform decision-making.

You will work across the organisation to identify and manage regulatory risk and prepare frameworks for ongoing reform. Ideal candidates will bring strong analytical and strategic thinking, with experience in a regulatory context and a commitment to safety and

Qualifications

• A valid Working with Children Check is essential.
• Experience in regulatory environments and policy development is advantageous.
• Strong analytical, written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement VECRA's regulatory priorities and strategic framework.
• Research regulatory issues, analyse data and prepare high‑quality advisory reports.
• Collaborate across the organisation to monitor risk and inform decision making.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Regulatory research

Policy development

Data interpretation

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline

Public policy or regulatory background

Tools

Data analysis software

Job description

About the Victorian Early Childhood Regulatory Authority (VECRA)The Victorian Early Childhood Regulatory Authority (VECRA) is the statutory authority responsible for regulating early childhood education and care services in Victoria. VECRA works to ensure the safety, wellbeing and development of children through effective regulation, compliance, quality assessment and continuous improvement across the early childhood sector.VECRA plays a critical system management role, providing guidance, oversight and assurance to the sector while supporting high-quality early childhood education outcomes for Victorian children and families.About the BranchThe Regulatory Strategy and Reform Branch leads VECRA's regulatory strategy and capability by driving evidence-led reform and continuous improvement to strengthen the regulator's ability to prioritise the safety, rights and best interests of children through effective regulation.About the RoleThe Strategy Advisor will contribute to the development and implementation of the Victorian Early Childhood Regulatory Authority's (VECRA) strategic priorities, with a focus on regulatory risk and priority setting. The role involves researching regulatory issues, analysing data and information, and drawing on national and international research to identify trends and inform decision-making.Working collaboratively across the organisation, the Strategy Advisor will contribute to the development of frameworks for identifying and managing regulatory risk, monitor emerging issues and opportunities, and prepare reports and high-quality advice to support regulatory planning, practice and decision-making.AttributesThe successful candidate will bring strong research, analytical and conceptual skills, with the ability to interpret information, identify trends and communicate findings clearly. They will demonstrate sound judgement, initiative and an ability to think strategically, manage competing priorities and deliver quality work in a changing regulatory environment.They will be a collaborative and adaptable team member who builds effective working relationships, takes accountability for their work and contributes to continuous improvement and the achievement of VECRA's regulatory priorities. Experience in a regulatory environment and an understanding of the early childhood regulatory context would be an advantage.Qualifications and ExperienceEssential: A valid Working with Children CheckDesirable: A tertiary qualification in a relevant discipline, experience in a regulatory environment, and experience in leading policy development, complex project management and implementing reformsFurther InformationFor more details regarding this position please see the attached position description. In your application, please provide your curriculum vitae and a cover letter (up to two pages) that addresses the position description's key selection criteria and your interest in the role.VECRA values diversity and inclusion in all forms - gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information about our work, working for VECRA, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions visit the VECRA website and our Diversity and Inclusion page.Applicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person.Information about VECRA's operations and employment conditions can be located on the VECRA website.For further information pertaining to the role, please contact Karen Turner - Manager, Regulatory Strategy and Reform Branch via 03 7022 2680 or [e-mail] applicants may be required to complete a police check and may be subject to other pre-employment checks. Information provided to VECRA will be treated in the strictest confidence.Please let us know via phone or email if you require any adjustments to ensure your full participation in the recruitment process or if you need the ad or any attachments in an accessible format (e.g. large print) due to any viewing difficulties or other accessibility requirements.Applications close 11:59pm on 16 November 2026.