Principal Policy Officer (VPS6)
If you're looking for a role in a dynamic and community-focused organisation that is making a genuine impact on the lives of all Victorians, the Principal Policy Officer could be the right fit for you.
In this role, you will:
- provide authoritative advice to senior executives, Commissioners and the Minister for Energy and Resources on the design, development, and delivery of the Victorian Energy Upgrades program.
- lead the implementation of legislative changes which delivers on the objectives of the program of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency across Victoria.
- initiate and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders to progress government policy and priorities and achieve successful outcomes.
Position details
This role will play a critical leadership role in shaping and advancing Australia's largest energy efficiency program. The position is responsible for:
- assessing proposed legislative amendments for consistency with the Commission's role and the program's legislative framework, and to ensure that proposed reforms are practical and implementable from an operational perspective
- acting as a critical interface between the commission and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), representing the commission's views on the drafting of legislative amendments to the program.
- leading the implementation of the legislative amendments into the program's regulatory and administrative framework.
Please refer to the attached position description for the principal functions and key selection criteria.
This is a fixed term 3 year position. The work location for this position is 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne with hybrid work arrangements available.
About us
The Essential Services Commission is Victoria's independent economic regulator of essential services supplied by a range of industries. The commission's functions include:
- making regulatory decisions with respect to prescribed industries (including price determinations, licensing, customer protection and access disputes).
- undertaking reviews and providing advice to Ministers on a range of economic and regulatory matters.
- administering the Victorian Energy Upgrades program.
Be part of a highly respected and professional organisation that allows you to apply your knowledge while supporting flexible working arrangements that allow you to balance work and life. You'll be working in a dynamic and collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
How to apply
To be considered for this position, applicants must submit a resume and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria, highlighting their skills and relevant experience in relation to the role.
Our commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive and flexible workplace
We are Equal Employment Opportunity employer with inclusive leaders committed to driving a workplace culture that prioritises equity, safety, respect, and flexibility for all staff. We uphold the principles of Aboriginal self-determination in caring for our community.
We welcome applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of any age, gender identity, parental/carer status, ability, religion, or cultural backgrounds.
If you require any adjustments to equitably participate in our recruitment process, please contact. We look forward to receiving your application.
Other relevant information
Preferred applicants are required to undergo mandatory pre-employment screening, which includes a national criminal history check, right to work verification, qualification checks, and a statutory declaration disclosing any previous misconduct investigations.
Applicants must have corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period to be appointed to this role. Ongoing positions are only available to Australian/New Zealand citizens or Australian Permanent Residents.
Applications close at 11:59pm on Sunday 16th November 2025