Advisory & Policy - Expressions of Interest at Department of Internal Affairs, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Advisory & Policy

Ministerial Services are seeking expressions of interest of talented professionals who are interested in working in a Ministerial office in the 55th Executive Government. These roles offer a rare opportunity to work at the heart of government, contributing to decisions and initiatives that have a direct impact on New Zealand communities while gaining experience in one of the country's most dynamic and unique working environments.

Advisory and policy roles are responsible for providing general and political advice to Ministers on their portfolio(s) that are consistent with the objectives of the Government of the day. You will develop effective relationships with a range of individuals, or groups including Ministers, Caucus, coalition and support parties to facilitate progress of policy and legislation within a Minister's portfolio responsibilities. You could be the sole Advisor in an office, or work with a team of Advisors in a Senior Minister's office.

Key skills and experience include:

• Understanding of New Zealand's machinery of Government, Parliamentary processes, and legislative frameworks.
• Strong political judgement, discretion and risk awareness.
• Ability to analyse complex information, identify key issues and risks, and provide clear, practical advice to support decision-making.
• Experience developing policy and progressing this through to legislation.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills.
• Knowledge of the Official Information Act and policy development.
• Demonstrated ability to identify, manage, and mitigate political, reputational, and operational risks.

We encourage EOI applications from individuals with an interest in working in Parliament. As part of the recruitment process, you will be invited to indicate whether you have a preference to work for a particular political party. These positions are event-based employment agreements, with employment linked to the three-year Parliamentary term.

All persons working in a Ministerial Office must obtain and maintain a National Security Clearance. To check your eligibility please use the self check tool on the Protective Security Requirements website.

Please note: the nature and number of these positions will not be known until after the results of the 2026 General Election are clear. If you have any questions, please email the E26 recruitment team at E26recruitment@dia.govt.nz.

We also encourage you to look at our EOI's for roles in Leadership & Management, Media & Communications, and Executive Support & Administration.