• Part-time fixed term opportunity (0.6 FTE) for up to five years 
• Role location negotiable with preference for regional NSW 
• Senior Executive Band 1 Equivalent – TRP from $130,798 per annum including super  
• Statutory officer position with independent legislative functions under the Biosecurity Act 2015 

About the Role 

The Independent Biosecurity Commissioner is a critical leadership role responsible for strengthening and monitoring NSW’s approach to pest and weed management under the Biosecurity Act 2015. 

The Independent Biosecurity Commissioner undertakes functions and responsibilities as outlined in the Biosecurity Act 2015. This includes providing independent advice to the Minister for Agriculture and the NSW Government on biosecurity matters, as well as providing expert, evidence-based insights to drive continuous improvement in biosecurity systems across the state. The role involves undertaking reviews, providing advice to the Minister and Government and engaging experts and stakeholders, to improve pest and weed management in NSW. 

You will champion collaboration across government, industry, and community stakeholders, fostering partnerships that enhance NSW’s capacity to manage and respond to invasive species. This is a senior statutory position with a state-wide remit and significant impact on the resilience and sustainability of NSW’s primary industries. 

The role involves occasional travel, primarily within NSW.   

About you 

The successful candidate will bring technical expertise and professional experience in pest and weed management, along with the capability to provide authoritative advice on complex biosecurity issues across NSW. Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills are essential, with a demonstrated ability to build and sustain productive relationships while managing diverse and sometimes competing interests. The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of the machinery of government which will help them to drive outcomes through collaboration, and offer practical recommendations to government. 

This is a senior leadership role that requires strategic acumen, political sensitivity, and the ability to operate independently in a dynamic and contested policy environment. The ideal candidate will be adept at identifying and delivering on key strategic priorities, and providing advice on emerging risks and opportunities. A high degree of diplomacy, sound judgement, and discretion is essential when advising the Minister on sensitive or controversial matters. 

Applying is easy! 

Submit your current Resume/CV and a Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) outlining your relevant skills and experience, and why you’re our ideal candidate. 

If you’d like to know more about the role, please click here to view the role description. 

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Donna McLeod, Director Executive Services on 0436 323 299.  

Applications close: Sunday 1 June 2025 at 11:55pm AEST 

 
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.  

As a statutory appointment, you will report to the Minister for Agriculture and work closely with the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). The successful applicant in this role will be required to undergo a police check and other assessments as required. 

Who are we?

DPIRD protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies. 

Collectively it supports strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies.  

The department brings together:  

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

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.