Senior Policy and Project Officer

• Temporary, full-time up to 12 months with possible extension
• Location – Orange, all NSW locations will be considered
• Clerk Grade 9/10, salary starting from $125,693 - $138,510 per annum plus super and leave loading
• This role will be supporting the NSW Agriculture Commissioner

Diversity and inclusion are core DPIRD values. Everyone has the right to contribute and participate to their full potential. We are committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive culture that is respectful, welcoming and flexible – a workplace where our people feel supported, valued, and part of our collective success.

About the Role

As the Senior Policy & Project Officer, you will work closely with the Principal Policy and Project Officer to deliver the NSW Agriculture Commissioner’s workplan and independent advice to government on agricultural matters in NSW. You’ll take on a mix of project delivery, research, analysis, and stakeholder engagement – all with the goal of supporting strong, evidence-based decisions for NSW agriculture.

You will also provide secretariat support to the NSW Agriculture Commissioner, including preparing briefs, coordinating meetings and ensuring high-quality communications with stakeholders across government and industry.

Key responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Develop and deliver high-impact project initiatives in line with the Agriculture Commissioner’s workplan.
• Provide clear advice to senior executives, Ministers, and key stakeholders, ensuring alignment with NSW Government objectives.
• Manage projects end-to-end, including timelines, contracts, procurement, monitoring and reporting.
• Track emerging issues across the agriculture, land use, and planning sectors in NSW, nationally and internationally.
• Maintain a strong understanding of relevant legislation, policy frameworks, and planning systems affecting the agricultural landscape.

What’s in it for you?

• Work directly with the NSW Agriculture Commissioner on high-impact projects.
• Lead complex projects, contribute to government decisions, and broaden your policy experience.
• Engage with government, industry and community partners to solve big-picture issues.
• Be on the front line of emerging trends shaping agriculture across NSW and beyond.

What You Bring

• Demonstrated experience in project management, or strategic advisory roles.
• Understanding of government operations and policy settings affecting primary industries or regional development.
• Strong writing and presentation skills, with experience preparing high-quality reports, submissions and briefings.
• A degree in public policy, government, agriculture, economics, environmental science, law or a related field is desirable but not essential.

At the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, your work matters. You’ll join a small, passionate team with a big agenda – helping NSW lead the way in key agricultural projects.

If you’re ready to take on a role where your ideas and expertise will shape the future of NSW’s primary industries and regional communities, we’d love to hear from you!

Apply now and be part of something bigger!

When applying you will need to submit a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) outlining your experience skills and capabilities that align to the role and a resume.

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

Application Closing Date: Sunday 25 May 2025, 11:55pm

Additionally, if you would like to hear more about this role, please contact Bec Johnson - Manager Ministerial Coordination and Briefing via rebecca.johnson@dpird.nsw.gov.au or on 0400 624 558.

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 in this role will be required to undergo reference checks, National Police Check and Bankruptcy Check.

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 Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is the department dedicated to growing primary industries and supporting regional economic development to deliver long term benefits to the state. Our focus is to protect, support and develop our primary industries, mining sector, and regions. DPIRD brings together Agriculture and Biosecurity; Forestry and Fishing; Local Land Services; NSW Resources; Regional Development and Delivery; the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation; NSW Public Works and Soil Conservation Service.

We have nearly 5,000 employees, with almost 80 per cent of us living and working in regional NSW.

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