Skip to main content
Register for
job alerts



Policy and Project Lead
Department of State Development
Job reference: 848021
Location: 5000 - ADELAIDE
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

About us:

The Department of State Development is the South Australian Government’s lead economic development agency. 

Our mission is to drive sustainable economic growth in South Australia by increasing industrial and workforce capability, capacity, collaboration and resilience. We take pride in hiring the right people for the right jobs and offer an attractive, flexible workplace. 

For more information about our agency, please visit: 

Department of State Development | statedevelopment.sa.gov.au 

About the role:

The Skills SA division is responsible for the delivery of National Skills Agreement (NSA) Closing the Gap initiatives within the vocational education and training (VET) system which include implementation, monitoring and control through governance, reporting and assurance arrangements under the 2024–2028 NSA.

The Policy and Project Lead, Closing the Gap coordinates delivery, oversee performance and risk, and ensure reporting and decision-making remain aligned with NSA requirements and strategic objectives to improve outcomes for First Nations learners through formal partnerships, sector strengthening and embedded cultural competency.

As a Policy and Project Lead you will:

  1. Lead the provision of high-quality analysis and expert advice on a range of policy issues and complex matters connected with the department’s overall work to improve Aboriginal experiences and outcomes under the NSA and Closing the Gap Priority Reforms.
  2. Foster cross-departmental and stakeholder collaboration to identify, analyse, and advance strategic opportunities that align with the department's Closing the Gap initiatives within the VET system.
  3. Integrate and refine policy advice from various sources, including on sensitive political matters, to shape informed policy decisions and development that advance the department’s priorities.
  4. Provide reflective leadership and oversight of policy and project management activities as required, including embedding cultural responsiveness in ways of thinking and working.
  5. Provide expert advice so the analysis and action of the Closing the Gap Policy team are underpinned by evidence, a clear theory of change and enact and principles and priorities of Closing the Gap VET initiatives across the State.

About You:

  • Exceptional cultural responsiveness and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to engage, consult, and negotiate with senior government officials on sensitive issues to achieve strategic objectives. Experience working collaboratively with Aboriginal people to bring about change.
  • Proficiency in operating within policy frameworks, demonstrating innovative thinking, creativity, and the ability to exercise independent judgment with significant delegated authority. Detailed knowledge of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and key government policies and procedures.
  • A track record of conducting thorough research and analysis on complex issues, delivering evidence-based, strategically aligned advice that is clearly articulated and effectively communicated.
  • Extensive experience in providing concise, thoughtful, and actionable advice to senior executives, ensuring clarity and strategic alignment.

Remuneration: Competitive salary of ASO8 p.a. plus superannuation

Benefits:

Bringing your talent to the Department of State Development will see you rewarded with a wide variety of benefits such as:

  • A variety of leave arrangements
  • Work-life balance with a flexible hybrid work arrangement
  • Access to great customised training and career development opportunities

Qualifications:

  • Essential: A tertiary qualification in a field relevant to the position, and/or substantial relevant professional experience
  • Desirable: A tertiary qualification in law, economic, evaluation, public policy, or similar

Special Conditions:

  • The role will be offered full-time (1.0 FTE) for up to 30 months.
  • Satisfactory Department of Human Services Criminal History Check or National Police Check (NPC) and Working with Children Check is required prior to the employment.

Enquiries:

For confidential enquiries / further information about the role, please contact Jess Roberts, Business and Engagement Reform Lead via Jessica.Roberts3@sa.gov.au

How to Apply:

All applications must be submitted through the I Work For SA website. 

Applicants are required to submit the following:

  • Cover letter demonstrating the suitability for the role by addressing the key competencies (2 pages max)
  • Curriculum Vitae (4 pages max)
  • Prepare 3 referees (at least one should be current or recent line manager), to be provided on request
  • Pre-employment Declaration Form – find the attachment on the job advert

Applications close: 28/06/2026 11:00 PM

Attachments:
- DSD Role Description - ASO8 Policy and Project Lead Closing the Gap Policy - April 2026.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf


Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.