Our open secret: Deliver with impact, connect to what matters & live your way.

• Ongoing full-time role, 35 hours per week
• Location:  Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations
• Clerk Grade 11/12 | Salary from $145,378 - $168,130 + superannuation + leave loading

Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, reflecting the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds – including but not limited to; gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation to submit an application. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.

About You

As a Principal Policy Officer, you’ll lead the development, delivery, and implementation of strategic projects, policy and legislation that supports the future of NSW’s natural resource and primary industry sectors. You'll provide and coordinate expert advice, and be a confident communicator with the ability to distil complex challenges into clear, practical advice and solutions.  This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and brings strong collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and negotiation skills to the table. If you enjoy mentoring others, driving strategic outcomes, and influencing government direction—this is your opportunity to make a real impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the NSW Independent Biosecurity Commissioner undertake their functions under the Biosecurity Act 2015.
• Lead and undertake research, analysis and review of complex policy issues, identify emerging issues and develop evidence-based options and strategies.
• Develop and implement strategies to monitor and evaluate policy initiatives, identify risks and issues, and inform advice, options and solutions.
• Lead team/s to deliver strategic outcomes aligned with government and departmental priorities.
• Provide evidence-based advice, concise reports, briefs, and correspondence for executive and ministerial audiences.
• Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships through consultation, engagement, and negotiation.

What We Offer

DPIRD is an attractive place to build your career.  You’ll be part of a team that offers:

• A Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
• Flexible, autonomous work environment
• Competitive pay and conditions
• Professional Development
• Health & Wellbeing and Employee Assistance Programs.

Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.

💬 For further information about this vacancy please contact:

Kate Montgomery, A/ Director Regulatory Policy & Economics on 0436 939 923.

🔗 Click here to view the full role description

👉 How to Apply

All applications must be submitted online.  Attach an up-to-date resume (ideally no more than 3 pages) and a cover letter (max. 2 pages) that briefly outlines how you meet the requirements of the role description and why you’re our ideal candidate.

Applications Close: Monday 2 June 2025, at 11:55pm       

What to expect next

Once you submit your application, you’ll receive an email confirmation. After the advertisement closes, all applications will be reviewed by the hiring manager and selection panel. If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview—this could be in person, over the phone, or via video. You may also be asked to complete role-related tasks, such as a written assessment, skills test, or psychometric assessment. Reference checks will be conducted for candidates progressing to the final stages. 

Additional Information

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next eighteen months.

The successful applicant may also be required to undergo a police check, health assessment, and other relevant checks as part of the recruitment process. 

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre- employment testing, require information in an alternative format, or otherwise participating in the recruitment process, please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion. 

About us: Together, we are DPIRD

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies.

Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.

  The department brings together:

• Local Land Services
• NSW Resources
• Agriculture and Biosecurity
• Fisheries and Forestry
• Regional Development and Delivery.

With nearly 5,000 employees, and 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.

DPIRD is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates.