As Senior Policy and Project Officer, you will undertake the development and delivery of programs and projects to enable sustainable regional economies and resilient communities.

You will undertake program design, manage governance and maintain key stakeholder relationships to drive performance.
You will play a crucial role in designing new funding initiatives, collaborating internally and externally to ensure programs are targeted, evidence‑based and aligned with strategic priorities.

This role is part of a high‑performing team, offering expert advice to senior executives and Ministerial Offices.

• Clerk Grade 9/10 starting at $129,464 + super & leave
• Temporary full-time up to 30 June 2027 – with possibility of extension
• Location: Willing to consider candidates in any NSW location

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake planning, design, development and delivery of regional development programs, ensuring strong governance, risk management, compliance, performance monitoring and high‑quality reporting.
• Scope, design and implement new programs by collaborating with senior internal and external stakeholders to identify opportunities, risks and desired outcomes.
• Monitor contract management across the full grant lifecycle, working closely with technical experts to ensure accountable and efficient delivery.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with government agencies, regional stakeholders, peak bodies and industry to support program development, delivery and issue resolution.
• Provide expert, timely advice, briefs and correspondence to senior executives and Ministerial Offices on program performance, risks, emerging issues and strategic opportunities.
• Maintain best practice project management in a high‑performing team, managing workload and performance within tight and shifting deadlines.
• Navigate complex stakeholder environments using sound judgement, diplomacy and problem‑solving to address challenges, competing priorities and governance requirements.

About You

• You are resilient and collaborative, team player who thrive in a dynamic environment, motivated by delivering tangible impacts for regional communities. You bring:
• Advanced project and program design capability.
• Strong communication, stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills.
• Experience delivering high‑value programs in a government or complex organisational context.
• Sound judgement, political acumen and experience in a public policy and program setting.
• Experience in policy writing guided by evaluation and research outcomes.

Why Join Us?

• Play a direct role in shaping the future of regional NSW
• Work within a supportive, purpose‑driven agency
• Develop meaningful programs with state‑wide impact
• Hybrid and region‑based work opportunities available

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 Casey Lovelock at casey.lovelock@dpird.nsw.gov.au 

Applications close: 11:59pm Sunday 3 May 2026

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

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 are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.  
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.