Senior Policy Analyst

This is your chance to be part of a transformative journey, supporting the implementation of vital recommendations from the independent review into Disability Support Services.

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 DSS Review Taskforce has been established to implement the recommendations of the Independent Review in DSS 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. You'll be working in a dynamic environment where you’ll tackle complex social policy issues and get to see those carried forward into delivery.

Key responsibilities include :

• Provide high-quality analysis and advice on complex social policy issues.
• Foster relationships across the Ministry and other social sector agencies.
• Contribute to meaningful system change that delivers better outcomes for disabled people.
• Represent the Ministry effectively in inter-agency working groups.

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. Senior Policy Analyst, position description

Salary | Utu-ā-tau : $113,496.00 - $137,794.00

Applications close | Ka kati ngā tono hei te :

Sunday 9th November 2025

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

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

Internal MSD Employees – please apply through your myHR portal at work. This will ensure that your myHR employee profile is visible as an 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.

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