Policy Advisors

Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini._
- Success is not the work of one, but the work of many._

**Te Haeata/The Opportunity**

Do you want the opportunity to hone your policy expertise and contribute to solving complex issues that impact New Zealand's legal and justice systems?

We are looking for enthusiastic advisors seeking to develop their careers. We have a range of permanent positions available.

These roles are in our:

- Courts and Justice Services Policy Unit, which has an important and ambitious programme of work to improve court timeliness and people's experience in the justice system
- Criminal Justice Unit, responsible for a wide-ranging programme of work focused on delivering on government's law and order priorities, alongside national security objectives, and
- Civil and Constitutional Unit, which focuses on policy issues related to the civil law, privacy protections, constitutional arrangements, electoral system, and human rights.

These roles are in the Courts and Justice Services Policy Unit, Criminal Justice Unit and Civil and Constitutional Unit.

**Te āhuatunga a te tūranga / About the role**
- Courts and Justice Services Policy Unit, which has an important and ambitious programme of work to improve court timeliness and people's experience in the justice system
- Criminal Justice Unit, responsible for a wide-ranging programme of work focused on delivering on government's law and order priorities, alongside national security objectives, and
- Civil and Constitutional Unit, which focuses on policy issues related to the civil law, privacy protections, constitutional arrangements, electoral system, and human rights.

If you are interested in a position in a specific policy unit, please ensure that your cover letter indicates this.

**_ Courts and Justice Services Policy Unit_**

Your work could involve providing advice on topical and important matters such as improving court timeliness and stewardship, our legal aid system, and family law issues. The Courts and Justice Services Policy Unit works to strengthen trust in the laws of Aotearoa New Zealand, administering and providing advice on the legal frameworks, systems and policies that underpin courts and tribunals, family relationships, access to justice and the provision of legal services.

**_ Criminal Justice Unit_**

Work in the Criminal Justice Unit incorporates a broad focus on developments in criminal law, both internationally and domestically. We play a lead role in delivering advice in support of justice sector law and order priorities, including the development of new offences, approaches to sentencing, reducing harms, victims' rights and tackling international and organised crime. We work with a range of stakeholders including those in the justice and social sectors, and national security agencies.

**_ Civil and Constitutional Unit_**

Work in the Civil and Constitutional Unit is varied, underpinned by a strong focus on the rule of law, representative democracy, executive scrutiny, honouring Te Tiri o Waitangi, the separation of powers, upholding the Bill of Rights and progressing human rights. The Unit is also responsible for the regulation of firearms in New Zealand.

**Ō pūkenga/Skills and Experience**

Policy advisors (Level 2) in the Policy Group have some experience of the policy process or equivalent experience, and work with others to resolve complex and challenging issues.
- **Relationship skills** -**Do you have strong skills in engaging with diverse internal and external stakeholders, learning from their perspectives as well as influencing them?
- **Problem solving skills** -**Can you think analytically and critically? Do you find complex problems interesting, and have a knack for solving them?
- **Communication skills** -**Are you an excellent communicator? Can you write clearly, in a way that simplifies complex information? Do you ask questions to improve your understanding?
- **Advisory skills** -**Do you have knowledge of machinery of Government and public policy?
- **Work management skills** -**Are you able to plan, prioritise, and organise work to deliver on short and long-term projects?

In return, we will:

- prioritise your well-being and professional development ensure you are coached by experienced policy professionals, and
- provide opportunities to work with others on a broad range of intellectually challenging policy problems.

Experience with the legislative process or a legal background would be an advantage but is not essential. Treaty of Waitangi/te Tiriti o Waitangi analysis skills are highly desirable.

Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand.

**Mō mātou/About us**

At Te Tāhū o te Ture - the Ministry of Justice, we're committed to working together for a fair and safe Aotearoa.

Joining the Ministry of Justice means you will become part of an inclusive organisation that values you and the communities we serve. It's our promise to ensure our workplace is one wher