• Full Time, 35 hours per week
• Ongoing role
• Location: Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations. Preference will be given to candidates based regionally, with a focus on Queanbeyan, Armidale, Dubbo and Coffs Harbour
• Clerk Grade 9/10 – Salary starting from $125,693.00 + super and 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 the Role
The Policy, Reform and Evidence Group of the Department of Primary Industries & Regional Development are looking for a Senior Policy Officer to join their team on an ongoing basis.

The Policy, Reform and Evidence Branch leads cross cutting policy and reform initiatives, underpinned by robust data, analysis and evidence. We work with teams across the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development to protect, support and develop primary industries and regional economies by ensuring that government decisions are informed by evidence, expert advice and stakeholder views.

The Senior Policy Officer will provide high-level advice and contribute to the development, coordination, implementation, and review of policies, with a strong focus on Native Title.

In this role, you will:

• Support a dedicated policy team focused on delivering innovative, evidence-based solutions to complex policy challenges impacting regional NSW.
• Support the development of policy advice across the department, particularly on Native Title matters.
• Coordinate inter-agency engagement, facilitate technical input, and support the management of policy-related risks.
• Contribute to building strategic relationships with Aboriginal communities, Native Title holders, and key regional stakeholders.
• Assist in the preparation of Cabinet submissions, ministerial briefings, and policy advice that support effective decision-making.
• Mentor team members and support best-practice governance, policy, and project delivery standards.

Your work will contribute to policies that support Native Title outcomes, strengthen community relationships, and ensure alignment with regional and sectoral priorities.

About You

Our ideal candidate will be a collaborative and strategic policy professional with experience in complex policy development and a strong understanding of land and resource management, particularly in regional NSW.

You will bring:

• Experience supporting policy development, ideally in land and resource management.
• Knowledge and experience of Native Title.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills across government, community, and industry.
• An understanding of regional NSW’s diverse communities and sectors.
• Excellent analytical, research, and communication skills.
• A supportive approach to mentoring and team collaboration.

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 Nick Peters, 0429 222 538, nick.peters@dpird.nsw.gov.au

Applications close: Wednesday 23rd July 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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.