Senior Policy Officer, Planning

The Senior Policy Officer, Planning (SPO) plays a critical role in the development and implementation of planning system reforms required to operationalise the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Amendment Act 2023 within Victoria. This includes designing and implementing new Victoria Planning Provisions (VPPs) and associated planning practice notes, ensuring changes are legally robust, evidence-based, and aligned with the Planning and Environment Act 1987. The SPO provides authoritative policy advice to the Minister and Executives, manages complex projects within agreed governance and timeframes, and engages with stakeholders, including industry, local government, Traditional Owners and community groups, to deliver reforms that integrate earth resources regulation into Victoria’s planning framework.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• A tertiary qualification in planning, environment, natural resource management, economics, law, public policy or another relevant field is mandatory.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing complex planning or regulatory reforms, including drafting amendments to statutory instruments and ensuing alignment with relevant legislation such as the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
• Highly developed 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 including demonstrated ability to prepare high-quality reports, briefings and advice for senior executives.

This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne 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.

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.

How to Apply:

If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers.

Click the ‘Apply’ button and you'll be redirected to a new platform and create an account.

Applications close 11.59pm on Sunday, 01 November 2026.

All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History 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.

An inclusive, culturally safe and flexible workplace

DEECA fosters an inclusive workplace culture and is committed to a fair, accessible, and equitable recruitment process.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander people to apply. We recognise the strengths, knowledge and perspectives First Nations people bring and DEECA is committed to a culturally safe and respectful workplace. If you need support to participate, please contact aboriginal.employment@deeca.vic.gov.au.

We support flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work, varied hours, part-time work and job sharing. For more information about our recruitment processes, visit applying for a role with us.