Principal Policy Analyst | Wellington | 1 year fixed term
Date: 27 May 2026
Location: Wellington, NZ
Company: Ministry of Social Development
- Lead high-impact policy work to support the future direction of Disability Support Services
- Fixed-term role through to 25 June 2027
Join a team that is focused on shaping the future of disability support in Aotearoa. As a Principal Policy Analyst in the Disability Support Services Policy team, you’ll lead complex policy work that directly impacts the lives of disabled people and their whānau.
About our team | Mō te tīma:
The Disability Support Services Group (DSS) has been established to ensure fairer access to disability support services in New Zealand, ensuring those with the greatest needs receive quality support services.
The taskforce is in place to continue work to strengthen DSS services for the future following the implementation of the independent review recommendations.
The work ahead aims to:
- provide disabled people with certain and consistent access to DSS, no matter what their circumstances or where they live in New Zealand
- prioritise funding for disabled people with the highest needs, and those who would benefit most from early intervention support,
- ensure that Enabling Good Lives (EGL) principles are put into practice
- ensure that the long-term sustainability of DSS is strengthened to provide disabled people and carers with services that are both fair and affordable.
About the role | Mō te tūnga:
This isn’t just another policy job. As a Principal Policy Analyst, you’ll be at the heart of a major reform programme, helping to implement recommendations from the Independent Review of Disability Support Services.
You’ll work across the Ministry and with other social sector agencies to ensure disabled people receive fair, consistent, and high-quality support—no matter their circumstances or location.
This is a fixed term role ending 25 June 2027 and is based in Wellington.
Key responsibilities include:
- Contribute to the Policy and Data workstream and the broader DSS Taskforce with specialist analytical advice.
- Lead projects and policy initiatives.
- Mentor and support the development of your colleague
We value diversity and welcome applications from disabled people and those who have lived experience with whānau, or the disability community.
Please contact us if there is any support that we can provide to ensure the recruitment process is accessible to you.
What you bring | Ōu pūmanawatanga:
- Comprehensive experience at a senior level in the policy development process and the workings of legislation and funding reform.
- A strong understanding of the machinery of government.
- Demonstrated experience working with a diverse range of stakeholders to achieve outcomes.
- Strong analytical skills and a demonstrated commitment to developing and maintaining specialist skills and knowledge in own area of expertise.
- A good understanding of policy implementation and the issues likely to impact on it.
- The ability to produce and recognise high quality policy advice.
Position Description | He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga:
A copy of the position description can be found here. Principal Policy Analyst position description.
Salary | Utu-ā-tau: $142,874.00 - $177,798.00
Applications close | Ka kati ngā tono hei te: Wednesday 10 June 2026.
About us | Mō mātou:
The Ministry of Social Development is a people-centred organisation. We’re in communities across the motu, working with partners to help New Zealanders be safe, strong and independent.
We provide social policy and advice to government and assistance, including income, employment and housing support to people of all ages, families, whānau and communities.
Our people are as diverse as the communities we serve. We care about the wellbeing and success of our people and provide a supportive and inclusive working environment where people can thrive and be who they are.
How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono:
Before you submit your application, please take a moment to review our guidance to understand how AI can best support your application. Candidate Guidance - Responsible AI use in recruitment
To apply, click the 'Apply Now' button to upload your CV, cover letter and complete the online application form.
Note: Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key responsibilities listed in the position description.
All applications must be made online. If this is not possible or if you have any queries, please contact us at jobs@msd.govt.nz
Internal MSD Employees – please apply through your myHR portal at work. This will ensure that your myHR employee profile is visible as internal candidate.
Joining us | Ko te hono mai:
Joining MSD means being part of a whānau that celebrates the diversity each individual represents.
We show manaaki, we care about the wellbeing and success of people and want everyone to thrive and be who they are in a supportive and inclusive working environment. We work together to make a difference for communities while doing the right thing with integrity. You can find out more about our values here.
If you have any support or accessibility requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.
