Senior advisor, Energy Policy

2 days ago

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Watershed Full time $120,000 - $170,000 per year

Help shape the policies driving Australia's clean energy future

  • Melbourne or remote
  • Full-time | $150,000–$170,000 + super
  • Initial 6 month contract with opportunity for continuation

Watershed is an independent strategic consultancy that helps leaders in politics, business, and civil society build the ideas, coalitions, and campaigns that drive Australia's climate transition.

We're looking for a Senior Advisor, Energy Policy to help solve some of the toughest challenges on Australia's path to net zero
— from transport electrification to renewable energy infrastructure and the policy settings that make them possible.

You'll work with governments, industry, and advocacy organisations to develop and advance practical, politically viable solutions for decarbonisation.
The role combines energy policy expertise with political strategy and communications
, and will suit someone who enjoys moving between technical analysis, stakeholder engagement, and coalition-building.

No two days will be the same — you might be shaping a policy proposal for a minister's office, coordinating a cross-sector partnership, or translating complex regulatory reform into a compelling story for business or community audiences.

We're open to shaping the role around the right person. You might come from government, Parliament, a regulator, corporate, consultancy, or advocacy organisation. What matters most is your ability to bring sharp analysis, political nous, and a collaborative spirit to the climate challenge.

What we offer

  • A chance to influence national policy and accelerate Australia's clean energy transition.
  • Work alongside a small, high-performing team that values impact and integrity
  • A flexible, supportive workplace at our Collingwood office, or remotely by agreement.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead analysis and policy design on key energy and transport decarbonisation issues, such as renewable generation, transmission, and electrification of transport and industry.
  • Provide clear, evidence-based advice on government policy and regulatory settings that enable the clean energy transition.
  • Develop policy and advocacy strategies that build coalitions between business, unions, and community groups.
  • Engage with Ministers' offices, departmental officials, and parliamentary stakeholders to advance decarbonisation policy outcomes.
  • Support strategic communications — from briefings and media materials to public reports — that make complex issues accessible and compelling.

You may have

  • 5+ years' policy experience, ideally in energy, transport, or climate - combining technical understanding with political strategy.
  • Strong analytical skills and an ability to translate complex information into actionable policy and communications.
  • A collaborative working style and ability to build trust across sectors.
  • Commitment to practical climate solutions that are both ambitious and achievable.

How to apply

Apply directly through LinkedIn, OR send a short cover note and CV/LinkedIn profile to Applications will be reviewed as they're received.

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