• Ongoing, full-time
• Location - Regional NSW (Negotiable & Flexible)
• Professional Grade 5, salary starting from $149,739 + super + leave loading

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 a Senior Policy and Project Officer, you will lead and manage critical animal biosecurity projects, with a focus on Destruction, Disposal, and Disinfection. You will provide expert advice on animal health and zoonotic disease issues, collaborate with internal teams, industry stakeholders, and research partners, and contribute to state and national policy forums. This is an opportunity to influence policy, guide operational responses, and strengthen biosecurity across New South Wales.

Key responsibilities, but not limited to:

• Lead and manage EAD-focused DDD projects aligned with NSW DPIRD’s strategic and business plans.
• Develop rapid operational plans to support destruction, disposal, and disinfection during emergency responses.
• Provide high-level technical advice and solutions to emerging animal health and zoonotic disease issues.
• Prepare briefings, submissions, reports, Ministerial correspondence, and speeches.
• Represent DPIRD in state and national forums, advising on technical and strategic policy issues.
• Maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, negotiating and influencing to achieve desired outcomes.
• Participate in the EAD hotline on-call rotation.

The ideal candidate

• High-level knowledge and practical experience in Destruction, Disposal, and Disinfection (DDD).
• Strong project leadership skills with the ability to deliver results under pressure.
• Ability to rapidly develop operational plans to support emergency responses.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and influencing skills.
• Ability and willingness to travel and drive across NSW as required.

Essential Requirements

• Tertiary qualifications in Agricultural, Animal, or Veterinary Science, or similar.
• Current NSW Driver Licence.

Join a dynamic team working at the forefront of animal biosecurity. Make a meaningful impact on public health, animal welfare, and industry resilience, while working in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Apply now to be part of a team that is protecting animals, communities, and industries across NSW.

Applying for the role

Apply online by submitting a current resume and brief cover letter (max 2 pages) that outlines your skills and experience relevant to the role.

For more information about the role, please click here to view the  Role Description.

Additionally, if you would like to hear more about this role, please contact Rhys Powell, Manager Animal Biosecurity Preparedness and Response via rhys.powell@dpird.nsw.gov.au or on 0487 570 829.

Application Closing Date: Tuesday 10 February 2026, 11:55pm AEDT

What to Expect Next  

After applying:  

• You’ll receive a confirmation email  
• We’ll review all applications once the ad closes  
• If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)  
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric assessment)  
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates   

Additional Information

• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.  
• A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months.   

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.  

We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across regional NSW. 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.  

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion  

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.  

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer  

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.