Description:
The Senior Policy Advisor is responsible for leading and developing the Water and Catchments Group's (WCG) economic regulation, customer protection and general economic advice capability within the economic management team. This role makes a significant contribution to the team's overall objective to support economic policy and performance of the Victorian water sector to deliver sustainable value for customers, community and the environment. The role will provide related strategic advice to the WCG Executive and contribute towards advice provided to other executives across the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), to the Office of the Minister for Water and other Victorian government agencies.
The Senior Policy Advisor will:
- Provide authoritative expert advice on complex issues, such as economic regulation and economic reform in the water sector that is timely, consistent and solution focused.
- Identify and respond to new and emerging strategic issues impacting on the affordable, sustainable water supply and sewage services operating environment, in a flexible and responsive manner.
- Lead delivery of projects with major and complex policy implications for DEECA and the water sector as required.
- Provide staff management and support, with a focus on constructively managing performance; assisting team members to build capability and achieve career goals; and providing a safe and respectful workplace.
- Provide timely and authoritative advice to senior executives on complex and sensitive pricing and performance matters based on sound data.
- Establish and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including within DEECA, across Government, the water sector, Traditional Owners, and the community, effectively anticipating and managing issues as they arise.
- Support the Senior Manager, Director and other executives in contributing to delivering branch and divisional goals, particularly with respect to staff management and support.
- Practice cultural safety by creating environments, relationships and systems free from racism and discrimination so that people can feel safe, valued and able to participate.
Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
- Tertiary qualifications in economics, commerce or a related field would be desirable.
- Demonstrated capability in policy development and experience of project management.
- Proven ability to work across government and organisations to influence policies and programs.
- Demonstrated experience water sector economics.
This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is flexible within Victoria 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.
For further information please refer to the attached position description.
Applications close at midnight on Monday, 12 May 2025.
Other relevant information:
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police 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.
A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace
DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave.