Economist or Regulatory Expert

Economist or Regulatory Expert – Payments Efficiency and Competition Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is recruiting a senior analyst to support its Payments Policy Department. The role focuses on shaping policy, monitoring the payments system, engaging stakeholders and developing evidence‑based recommendations. About the Department The Payments Policy Department shapes the RBA’s payments system policy, regulatory oversight and monitoring functions. The department promotes competition, enhances efficiency and improves the safety of Australia’s payments system. About the Team The Payments Efficiency and Competition section promotes competition and efficiency in Australia’s retail payment system. The team assesses potential competition and efficiency issues related to retail card payments, buy‑now‑pay‑later services, mobile wallets, online payments and account‑to‑account payments, among others. About the Role You will shape the RBA’s position on payments policy issues. Your work will support the Payments System Board’s objectives, build deep subject matter expertise, and engage a wide range of stakeholders. Formulate and communicate policy advice to the Bank’s leadership team, the Payments System Board and internal and external stakeholders. Monitor developments and innovations in payments, including ensuring compliance with the Bank’s regulations and promotion of the Bank’s objectives. Draft papers for the Payments System Board and external publications including consultation papers, bulletin articles and research discussion papers. Engage with stakeholders in the payments industry and other regulators to collect qualitative and quantitative data in support of the section’s monitoring, oversight and policy roles. About You We are seeking a passionate policy analyst with an interest in payments. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical, written and verbal communication skills, organisational and time‑management skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with a range of stakeholders. Strong critical thinking skills to tackle complex policy questions and issues. Ability to write clearly and succinctly for a range of audiences. Strong spoken communication skills. Good organisational and time‑management skills. Well‑developed influencing skills. Ability to work collaboratively with a range of stakeholders and in a team. Demonstrated ability to reprioritise quickly as circumstances change. Competitive Candidates Competitive candidates will typically have experience as an economist (demonstrable econometrics, statistical or coding skills, postgraduate study and research experience an advantage) or as a regulator (appropriate legal, financial or relevant qualifications and prior experience in a regulatory role). However, we hire based on skills and potential to succeed. We welcome applicants from varied professional paths who can show they have the skills, mindset and motivation to contribute meaningfully to our work. Next Steps To apply for this role, submit a resume and a one‑page cover letter demonstrating your interest and suitability. The successful candidate will likely start in January 2026. Why RBA? The RBA makes an important contribution to the Australian economy through national economic policy objectives and associated activities in financial markets and banking. We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. The RBA welcomes and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with a disability and from the LGBTQ+ community. We are committed to making the recruitment process fair and equitable for all our candidates. #J-18808-Ljbffr