About Us

We create thriving places and connected communities. We plan, build and maintain Victoria’s transport, planning and land services. We are committed to a safe, inclusive and high-performing workplace. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to creating a safe, inclusive workplace where our people can thrive and do meaningful work.

Title: Senior Policy and Research Lead
Requisition ID: 12568
Work Type: Fixed Term Full Time
Fixed Term Period: 20/08/2027
Location: Melbourne - CBD
Date Posted: 15 Sept 2026

About The Role

This is a Fixed Term Position until 20 August 2027.

The Senior Policy and Research Lead provides strategic policy, research and regulatory advice on complex and sensitive issues supporting DTP’s response to the Royal Commission into integrity in the construction industry. The role leads policy analysis, research and stakeholder engagement, providing evidence-based recommendations and advice to senior decision-makers.

Key responsibilities include developing policy and reform initiatives, analysing legislative and regulatory impacts, identifying risks and opportunities, and preparing high-quality briefs, submissions and reports. The role also builds strong relationships across government, industry and regulators, represents DTP in intergovernmental forums, and coordinates policy responses to deliver strategic outcomes.

What We’re Looking For

- Uses critical thinking and sound judgement to investigate complex issues, assess risks and develop practical, evidence-based solutions.
- Designs and develops effective policy and regulatory options by applying legislation, policy frameworks and strategic priorities.
- Leads research and analysis,



drawing on diverse evidence and emerging trends to develop explicit recommendations and strategic advice.
- Communicates complex information clearly and persuasively through high-quality briefs, reports, submissions and presentations tailored to the audience.
- Builds strong stakeholder relationships, confidently engaging and negotiating on sensitive issues while balancing competing interests to achieve outcomes.

Qualifications And Experience

You’ll bring:

- Demonstrated experience undertaking research and/or policy development within large projects (mandatory).
- A tertiary qualification in law, public policy, economics or a related discipline, with experience developing or amending legislation and/or regulations in a State or Commonwealth public service setting (desirable).
- Experience working within a Royal Commission or similar inquiry environment will be highly regarded.

Pre-employment checks and employment conditions

Relevant pre-employment screening and reference checks will be required.
Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position.
Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply.

Redeployees

If you are a VPS redeployee, please state this in your cover letter and include your case manager’s contact details. This helps ensure your redeployment status is appropriately considered. For more information on redeployment, visit the Victorian Government policy

Important information

If you require any adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process or need the advert or attachments in an accessible format (e.g., large print), please contact us. We're here to support you.

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📌 Senior Policy and Research Lead (Melbourne)
🏢 Department of Transport and Planning
📍 Melbourne