Senior Policy Officer

The Senior Policy Officer works within the multidisciplinary Animal Welfare Policy team providing advice to the Minister for Agriculture and senior executives on animal welfare policy, regulation and reform. The role delivers high‑level advice and leadership on animal welfare policy and legislation across Agriculture Victoria and maintains strong relationships with external stakeholders, inter‑government agencies, and internal partners. It is responsible for leading complex projects on state policy and regulatory development and contributing to national initiatives, including development and implementation of Australian animal welfare standards and guidelines. The position requires a proactive, self‑driven approach, sound judgement and a commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, responsiveness, and flexibility.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• A relevant tertiary degree will be well regarded.

This is a fixed term position available until 31 August 2027. The work location for this position is flexible within Victoria (preferred office is in Attwood) 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, 13 October 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.

An inclusive, culturally safe and flexible workplace

DEECA fosters an inclusive workplace culture and is committed to a fair, accessible, and equitable recruitment process.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander people to apply.  We recognise the strengths, knowledge and perspectives First Nations people bring and DEECA is committed to a culturally safe and respectful workplace.  If you need support to participate, please contact aboriginal.employment@deeca.vic.gov.au.

We support flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work, varied hours, part-time work and job sharing.  For more information about our recruitment processes, visit applying for a role with us.