Principal Policy Officer, Large Load Policy

The Principal Policy Officer is responsible for leading strategic work and providing authoritative policy analysis and advice that supports Victoria’s growth in data centres, whilst managing implications related to energy systems and electricity load growth.

Working closely with colleagues and internal/external stakeholders, the Principal Policy Officer will use their research, analysis, and policy development skills to lead the development of policy for the short, medium, and long term. 

Responsibilities include

• Representing the department in a range of internal and external working groups
• Working closely with the department’s executive
• Supporting briefings to Ministers, interdepartmental senior executives and key stakeholders.
• Overseeing and developing governance processes
• Preparing cabinet submissions, ministerial briefings, meeting materials and other government documents

As the successful candidate, you will have excellent communication with the ability to rapidly reprioritise your work to support the department’s broader work program and the dynamic environment that data centre investment presents. 

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• Highly developed understanding of Victorian and national energy systems with a focus on policies that promote energy system security, reliability and affordability, including networks policy, as well as working understanding of the energy implications and surrounding policy for the built environment.
• A relevant university and/or higher-level qualifications such as public policy, government administration, energy is desirable.
• Well-developed understanding of Government processes and operations focusing on policy development and delivery.  

This is a fixed term position available until 30 June 2028. 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. 

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Applications close 11.59pm on Monday, 06 July 2026.

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.