Principal Policy and Project Officer

• Temporary, full-time up to 12 months with possible extension
• All NSW locations will be considered
• Clerk Grade 11/12, salary starting from $145,378 - $168,130 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 Principal Policy and Project Officer, you will take on a pivotal leadership role in supporting the NSW Agriculture Commissioner to deliver a bold and forward-thinking workplan and independent advice to government on agricultural matters in NSW. You will lead a small dedicated team focused on designing and implementing high-impact projects that shape the future of agriculture in NSW.

A key part of your role will also be overseeing the secretariat function — ensuring coordinated support, timely delivery, and effective communication to drive the Commissioner’s priorities forward. This is an exciting opportunity to combine leadership, influence, and innovation in a role that makes a real difference to the future of farming and land use in NSW.

Key responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Lead a small, high-performing team to develop advice and deliver strategic projects and collaborate closely across the Department to support the Agriculture Commissioner with technical expertise and advice.
• Develop and implement initiatives that support the Agriculture Commissioner’s workplan.
• Provide clear and well-researched advice to the Commissioner and senior executives.
• Oversee the secretariat function to ensure smooth operations and timely delivery.
• Build strong relationships with government agencies, industry partners and stakeholders.
• Identify new trends and risks affecting agriculture and land use in NSW.

This is an opportunity to use your policy knowledge, understanding of agriculture and/or rural land use and leadership skills to deliver real outcomes that make a difference for farmers, rural communities, and the future of agriculture in NSW.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a visionary team shaping advice and policies that will affect generations of NSW farmers and rural communities.
• Drive meaningful change at the intersection of environment, economy, and rural development.
• We support hybrid working and value work-life balance.
• Grow your influence and leave a lasting impact on NSW's agricultural future.

What You'll Bring

• Tertiary qualifications or equivalent experience in agriculture, environmental science, land use planning or a related field.
• Deep understanding of agricultural land use challenges and opportunities in NSW.
• A comprehensive understanding of the machinery of government and administrative processes.
• Proven experience leading strategic projects and high-performing teams.
• A calm and collaborative approach to managing competing priorities and complex stakeholders.

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 agricultural policy.

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.