As a DLO, you will act as a trusted advisor and key link between DPIRD and our portfolio Ministers’ offices. You’ll provide high-level advice, coordination, and administrative support to ensure smooth communication and delivery of government and ministerial priorities. 

• Clerk grade 9/10 Salary starting at $129,464 + super & leave 
• Location: Sydney 
• Temporary – up to 2 year appointments can be offered from this Talent Pool  

About the Role 

The Department Liaison Officer provides a readily accessible source of knowledge and assistance regarding DPIRD’s operations to our portfolio Ministers’ offices. This role is central to facilitating effective communication between the department and the Minister’s office, ensuring timely and accurate advice on emerging issues. You will manage and quality-check ministerial briefs, correspondence, speeches, and parliamentary material, while anticipating and responding to sensitive matters within tight timeframes. Success in this role requires building strong relationships across DPIRD, other agencies, and stakeholders, and supporting the Minister’s involvement in meetings, events, and visits with well-prepared, high-quality advice and documentation. 

 What We’re Looking For 

We’re seeking professionals who can: 

• Communicate effectively and confidently with diverse audiences, including senior executives and ministerial staff. 
• Demonstrate resilience, integrity, and a commitment to public sector values. 
• Manage competing priorities and deliver results under pressure. 
• Navigate complex government processes and maintain confidentiality. 
• Build collaborative relationships and influence stakeholders to achieve outcomes. 
• Think strategically and solve problems in a fast-paced environment. 
• Show initiative, adaptability, and sound judgment when responding to emerging issues. 

Essential Requirements 

• Understanding of DPIRD’s functions and objectives or ability to quickly acquire this knowledge. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear, concise, and persuasive documents. 
• Ability to work under pressure and meet critical deadlines in a politically sensitive environment. 
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and commitment to ethical conduct. 

Applying is easy! 
Submit your current Resume (max 2 pages) and a Cover Letter (max 1 page) outlining your relevant skills and experience, and why you’re our ideal candidate. 

If you’d like to know more about the role, please view the  Role Description.

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, Bec Johnson, Manager Business Operations at rebecca.johnson@dpird.nsw.gov.au or via MS teams or 0400624558.  Bec will be unavailable to respond to any messages from 24^th December to 1^st January inclusive.

Applications close:  11:55pm Sunday 11 January 2025

Please note that DPIRD will be closed during the period 25 December 2025 to 11 January 2025 (inclusive). Recruitment process will recommence in January 2026.

About us 

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. 

Additional Information:  

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. 

DPIRD is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates.   

Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone can 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 apply. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.  Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.