Graduate Policy Advisor

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Inland Revenue is seeking a Graduate Policy Advisor based in Wellington. You will help develop, manage and communicate policy on tax and social issues, with opportunities to conduct research, build policy options and support legislation.

The role emphasizes engaging with stakeholders and presenting complex ideas clearly, leveraging a strong academic background and writing ability. Roles commence early 2027, with a focus on inclusive, development‑oriented policy work.

Qualifications

• Graduate this year or within the past three years.
• Strong academic background in a relevant field.
• Submit a short sample of your written work demonstrating writing ability.

Responsibilities

• Develop, manage and communicate tax and social policy.
• Conduct research and develop policy options.
• Prepare legislation and support the legislative process.
• Engage with stakeholders and communicate complex ideas.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Written communication

Stakeholder engagement

Policy analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in economics/public policy/social sciences

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Graduate Policy AdvisorsPermanent, full-time rolesWellington basedAs a Graduate Policy Advisor, you'll do work that has a direct impact on New Zealand's economic and social wellbeing and sets you up with a strong foundation for a rewarding policy career.The opportunity - Ara whiwhi mahiBe part of one of the best policy shops in Government! We are looking for people to join our high-performing policy team where you will be responsible for developing, managing and communicating tax and social policy. As part of this, you can look forward to getting involved in a broad range of things, from conducting research and developing policy options to preparing legislation and providing support throughout the legislative process.It's a great chance to really showcase your critical and conceptual thinking skills, and to put your strong academic background into action. In this role you'll be engaging with stakeholders and effectively communicating complex ideas. In return for what you bring to us you can expect to be part of an inclusive work environment with development opportunities.If you will graduate this year or have graduated within the past three years, we want to hear from you. Roles will commence in early 2027 and are Wellington-based.About us - Mo matouOur Policy team advises Government on a wide range of tax and social policy issues. We research and develop policy options, and present policy recommendations to senior officials and Ministers. Unlike many policy agencies, we also draft our own legislation arising from policy recommendations and support it through the legislative process, giving our advisors end-to-end policy experience.To see what we've been working on, visit:https://taxpolicy.ird.govt.nz/work-programmeApply here - Tono maiPlease apply online and include:your CVa cover letter outlining your interest in the role and how you meet the requirementsa complete academic transcript (or an unofficial transcript if you have not yet graduated)a short sample of your written work demonstrating your writing ability (e.g. an excerpt of an essay written for a university course). This should be no longer than three pages.Use of AI toolsWe understand that applicants may use a range of tools to support their application. However, this is a writing-intensive role, and your application materials should primarily reflect your own thinking and writing. We will explore your written work further as part of the selection process.For specific queries, please email [e-mail] and I will be in touch with you.Applications close Friday, 20 November 2026 - 5pm.At Inland Revenue, we truly embrace diversity and inclusion and promote a flexible and supportive work environment that meets the needs of our people and business. We have trust and integrity, innovate to make a difference, value people and work together.