Job description An opportunity exists for a skilled Policy Officer to join a high-performing team working on complex and high-impact reform initiatives within a dynamic Commonwealth environment. This role contributes to the development and implementation of contemporary policy that improves market settings, strengthens intermediary arrangements, and supports better outcomes for participants and service users. You will work in a fast-paced environment where sound judgement, analytical thinking and stakeholder engagement are essential to success. The APS6 Policy Officer will: Contribute to critical policy reform aimed at improving efficiency and effectiveness of intermediary or market-based service systems Provide high-quality policy advice through complex analysis, development and implementation work Exercise sound judgement in managing sensitive and high-risk issues Support government priorities through evidence-based recommendations and strategic thinking Key duties Develop, review and implement policy, strategy and project materials within a reform-focused environment Undertake complex policy analysis, including interpretation of data, legislation and program information Prepare high-quality briefs, reports, submissions, correspondence and presentations Build and maintain productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders Design and support engagement activities with diverse stakeholder groups Contribute to governance processes, including decision-making and assurance frameworks Support reform initiatives aligned with organisational and government priorities Apply critical thinking to emerging issues and competing priorities Skills and capabilities Strong analytical and conceptual thinking skills with the ability to solve complex problems Highly developed written communication skills suitable for government audiences Sound judgement, governance awareness and decision-making capability Ability to work effectively both independently and within a collaborative team Experience producing high-quality policy documents, briefs and reports Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills Adaptability to shifting priorities and competing deadlines Commitment to contributing to a positive and professional team culture Knowledge and experience Experience in strategic policy development, reform programs or similar government work Understanding of legislation and its application in policy contexts Experience with program design, implementation or evaluation Exposure to market-based systems or commissioning approaches (desirable) Knowledge of the disability, social policy or human services sectors (desirable) Understanding of Commonwealth governance and procurement frameworks (desirable) Qualifications A tertiary qualification in public policy, law, social sciences or a related discipline is highly desirable Equivalent relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal qualifications Working conditions Open plan and hot-desking environment Hybrid working arrangements including occasional work from home Significant computer-based work using standard Microsoft Office and internal systems Regular telephone and virtual engagement May include exposure to general office noise and shared workspace settings EligibilityTo be eligible for this position, applicants must: Be an Australian citizen Successfully complete employment suitability and/or police checks in accordance with Commonwealth requirements For a further private and confidential discussion please contact Sam at DFP Recruitment on 0385457508 or spack@dfp.com.au or apply online. Applicants new to DFP may be asked to provide additional information including work rights status via a survey link – if requested, we ask that you provide this information in order to expedite your application. DFP welcomes applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and people with disability. In addition, DFP will provide reasonable adjustments for individuals with disability throughout the recruitment process. If you identify as a person with disability and require adjustments to the application, recruitment, selection and/or assessment process, please advise via adjustments@dfp.com.au or 1300 337 000 and indicate your preferred method of communication (email, phone, text) so we can keep in touch and meet your accessibility needs. By clicking 'apply', you give consent that DFP may use your personal information to process your job application and to contact you for future employment opportunities. For further information on how DFP process your personal information please review the DFP Information Collection and Privacy Policy via https://www.dfp.com.au/about-us-1/policies. Do not submit any sensitive personal information in your resume.
