Role Title: Principal Policy Officer
Engagement Type: Contract (6 months)
Classification: Equivalent to ASO8 (Senior Policy Level)
Estimated Start Date: 21/07/2025
Estimated End Date: 23/01/2026
Work Location: Central CBD location (hybrid working arrangement available – up to 2 days WFH)

Role Overview:
A senior opportunity exists for a highly capable Principal Policy Officer to join a government department to provide strategic policy leadership across a complex portfolio. The role requires a seasoned policy professional who can operate with autonomy, deliver high-quality briefings and advice, and work collaboratively across agencies to support executive and ministerial decision-making.

Reporting to a senior manager within the strategy and governance division, the Principal Policy Officer will lead the development of policy initiatives and provide insights on matters with cross-portfolio significance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide and coordinate expert, high-level strategic policy advice on complex and interrelated subject areas.
• Prepare ministerial and executive briefings, cabinet submissions, policy reports, and associated documentation.
• Draft talking points, presentation material, and narratives to support senior leaders at key meetings and events.
• Represent the department on cross-agency and intergovernmental policy working groups.
• Provide analysis and strategic insights on sectoral trends, future directions, and policy risks or opportunities.
• Support the development of business cases, budget bids, and external funding proposals.
• Contribute to the alignment of internal strategy with evolving national and jurisdictional priorities.

Key Skills and Experience:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex policy matters clearly and concisely.
• Highly developed stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and relationship-building capabilities.
• Advanced analytical and conceptual thinking skills, with a demonstrated ability to lead policy development and problem-solving activities.
• Sound judgement, the ability to determine priorities, and a track record of working independently under broad direction.
• Demonstrated resilience, flexibility, and the ability to deliver under tight timeframes without compromising quality.
• Strong experience in preparing a range of policy deliverables including legislation, guidance materials, and strategic advice.
• Prior experience in sectors such as energy, natural resources, sustainability, or similar is desirable but not essential—transferable policy experience will be considered.

Other Information:

• Hybrid work arrangement: up to 2 days per week remote work.

Applications will close for submission 16th of July or when maximum submissions are reached.

At Chandler Macleod, we are committed to fostering a diverse workforce where everyone is welcome. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, neurodiverse, people living with a disability and the LGBTIQA+ community.

You can read more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion at https://www.chandlermacleod.com/diversity-and-inclusion.