Policy Officer, Western Sustainable Water Strategy

Company description:

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action

Job description:

This is a key position in a dynamic area supporting the development and delivery of priority Victorian water infrastructure projects relating to water security and long-term public benefit outcomes in the context of climate change and dry conditions.

As the Policy Officer you will be required to conduct research and analysis to support policy decisions, providing data-driven insights and recommendations to the Project Director.​ The position will facilitate communication and coordination with stakeholders, ensuring their input is meaningfully integrated into policy development and implementation processes.

This role will have the opportunity to input into future strategic priorities and to engage with other elements of the team's diverse work program as well as broader water sector intersections.

This position requires that the candidate understand the issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and an ability to communicate sensitively and effectively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples and key technical proficiencies to design and deliver programs related to employment, development and engagement.

Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.

Non-Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People can apply, however, the position requires an in-depth knowledge of Aboriginal culture and an ability to communicate with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• An appropriate qualification in public policy, engineering, science, natural resource management or an approved equivalent is highly desired.
• A current Victorian Driver's Licence is required.

This is a fixed term position available until 30 June 2026. 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.

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 Tuesday, 07 October 2025.

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.

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. For more information visit applying for a role with us.

This position is classified as an "identified position" aimed at increasing employment opportunities for Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People. The position requires an in-depth knowledge of Aboriginal culture and an ability to communicate with Aboriginal communities. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.

We recognise the significant responsibility to enable self-determination, be accountable to Traditional Owners and provide opportunities to strengthen First Peoples' connection to Country. We are committed to creating a culturally safe environment, where individuals feel safe, valued, and able to celebrate their culture, and spiritual and belief systems.

For general information about Aboriginal Employment at DEECA, please contact