Together we shape thriving communities, public spaces, places and economies.

• Permanent full-time (35 hours per week) opportunity
• Based in NSW – DPHI office location negotiable. Flexible working supported.
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $149,739 to $173,174 + super

What’s in it for me?

Join our team for a fantastic culture with dynamic collaboration and genuine long-term career support. We offer flexibility in work arrangements, diverse and fulfilling assignments, and prioritise work/life balance and wellbeing with initiatives like flex leave and access to support programs. Additionally, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to succeed.

The role

As Principal Policy Officer in the Native Title Policy Team, you will lead policy reform that supports First Nations communities and Native Title outcomes. You’ll guide a team to develop and deliver new policy that aligns with government priorities, while navigating complex legal, cultural, and stakeholder landscapes. A big part of the job is making sure policy advice is evidence-based, timely, and responsive to the needs of Aboriginal people and communities.

You’ll often be working in fast-moving environments where priorities shift and stakeholder views can be diverse and deeply held. That means balancing competing interests, building trust, and communicating clearly—especially when dealing with sensitive or emotionally charged issues. If you’re passionate about working in genuine partnership with Aboriginal communities to shape policy that creates lasting, positive change, this role offers a chance to make a real impact.

For more information read the full Role Description:  Principal Policy Officer - Native Title Policy

What you will bring to the role

• You’re someone who can stay grounded and decisive when things get tough—whether it’s navigating sensitive issues, managing competing views, or leading through change with confidence and clarity.
• You know how to turn complex ideas into practical solutions, drawing on research, data, and collaboration to shape policy that delivers real outcomes.
• You lead with integrity and purpose, supporting your team’s growth and performance while embedding culturally respectful approaches in your work with First Nations communities.

Key skills and experience:

• Proven ability to lead complex policy development and reform, with a focus on delivering outcomes that align with government priorities and support First Nations communities.
• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to identify emerging issues and develop evidence-based policy options.
• Understanding of Aboriginal cultural perspectives and Native Title, with a commitment to embedding respectful and inclusive approaches in policy work.
• Proven ability to manage stakeholder engagement, consultation, and negotiation across diverse and sometimes competing interests.
• High-level written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear, persuasive reports, briefs, and correspondence.
• Experience managing and supporting teams, including performance development and alignment with organisational goals.
• Knowledge of financial processes, procurement, and contract management within a public sector context.
• Ability to deliver results under pressure, manage competing priorities, and adapt to changing circumstances.

About us

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) improves the liveability and prosperity of NSW. To achieve this, we: create vibrant, productive spaces and precincts; manage lands, assets and property effectively and deliver affordable and diverse housing. We strive to be a high-performing, world-class public service organisation that celebrates and reflects the full diversity of the community we serve and builds the cultural capability of our department to improve outcomes with and for Aboriginal people, communities and entities. 

We are an inclusive and accessible workplace, where your individual contributions are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to feel a sense of connection and belonging. DPHI supports various employee affinity groups, practices flexible working, offers job share and workplace adjustments.

Join us

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close 11:55PM on Monday 25 August 2025

Should you require further information about the role please contact Phil Berry on phil.berry@dpie.nsw.gov.au

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment. 

We encourage and support applications from people with disability. Please reach out to us to discuss any accommodations or adjustments that may be needed during the recruitment process, ensuring that you have every opportunity to showcase your talent, skills, and potential. Contact the Talent Team via talent.acquisition@dpie.nsw.gov.au or (02) 63637676​ - HR Support, option 2, DPHI People Advisory, option 1 and reference 'Request an Adjustment - Job Title and Reference Number'.

Check out our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for the role or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for a yarn