Principal Policy Advisor

The NHVR is seeking an experienced and innovative Principal Policy Reform Advisor to help drive strategic initiatives that improve safety, productivity and customer outcomes across the heavy vehicle industry.

This is not a traditional policy role. We're looking for someone who brings curiosity, strategic thinking and a fresh perspective to complex policy challenges. You will be comfortable challenging conventional approaches in a fast-paced environment and collaborating across diverse stakeholder groups to deliver meaningful change.

About the role

In this role, you will work closely with the Director and multi-disciplinary teams to drive the development of evidence-based policy frameworks that support a safer and future focused heavy vehicle regulatory system.

You will:

• Contribute to the development of access & accreditation frameworks and help shape future‑state policy design.
• Identify opportunities to improve regulatory outcomes.
• Prepare high quality, plain‑English policy documents briefing notes and discussion papers.
• Undertake research and analysis to evaluate policy positions and provide recommendations.
• Advise executives and industry on emerging issues and reform opportunities.
• Lead and facilitate workshops with jurisdictions, industry and other key stakeholders.

What you’ll bring

We’re seeking someone who is both strategic and hands‑on — a policy all‑rounder who enjoys diving into detail while keeping sight of the bigger picture.

We are looking for someone who has

• 5–10+ years in policy, regulation, government or reform.
• Experience working in or alongside government and understanding how policy is shaped.
• Strong ability to write clear, concise policy documents.
• Curiosity, strategic thinking and a willingness to challenge the status quo.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, shifting environment with multiple priorities.
• Confidence engaging with senior leaders and diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite.

Why join us?

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) commenced operations in 2013 as the national entity responsible for regulating all vehicles in Australia over 4.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass. The NHVR minimises the compliance burden on the heavy vehicle transport industry, reduces duplication and inconsistences across state and territory borders, and ultimately for the heavy vehicle business with government in Australia.

We are headquartered in Brisbane and employ more than 1000 people across the ACT, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria.

 We offer

• A competitive salary package from $166,622 + superannuation
• Up to 15.25% superannuation through a co-contribution scheme
• Leave loading 17.5%
• Modern office environment with attractive end of trip facilities
• Options for monthly or fortnightly rostered day off
• Additional paid leave over Christmas closure
• Hybrid working environment – up to 2 days from home.
• Wellbeing programs – discounted fitness through Fitness Passport, Discount health insurance, flu vaccine, financial programs including discounted banking products, finance information sessions
• Salary packaging options including novated lease
• Discounted IT products including Microsoft and free family password security plan
• Ongoing training and professional development support
• Professional membership

Application Process

Please apply with your CV and cover letter addressing the essential requirements of the role.

Applications close: 5pm Friday 10 July 2026 (applications may close earlier than the listed closing date if suitable candidate/s are identified prior).

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the NHVR Talent Acquisition Team on recruitment@nhvr.gov.au.

Successful applicants will be required to complete standard pre-employment checks including a national police and work rights check.

Please Note: We will not require any support from Recruitment Agencies at this time and kindly request no contact is made. Only direct applications will be considered.

We are committed to being an inclusive, diverse and flexible workplace where differences are valued. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experience and abilities.