The opportunity
We have two exciting opportunities for a Policy Lead within our Policy, Programs & Finance Division.
The role leads major policy development projects, working across the EPA and other agencies to develop major legislative or regulatory reform that aligns with Government objectives and policy directions.
An important focus of the role is to work with the Manager Policy to drive development of the EPA’s climate change regulatory frameworks.
About you
You are a motivated professional who thrives in complex, fast-paced environments. You will possess strong strategic thinking skills, the ability to establish and maintain relationships across a variety of stakeholders and a genuine passion for delivering good policy outcomes.
You have strong analytical skills, sound judgement, and the ability to translate complex issues into clear, practical and high-quality policy advice.
A background in economics or natural resource management would be highly regarded.
The ideal candidate will bring demonstrated experience in the following areas:
- Policy reform in complex and contentious environments
- Analysing complex technical, environmental, economic and strategic issues to form clear, practical and evidence-based policy advice
- Leading small engaged project teams
- Providing actionable advice to senior executives
- Cabinet and legislative processes.
For more information, please read the full Role Description - Policy Lead EO12
About us
As the environmental steward and regulator of our State we are committed to a sustainable future.
Our people are proud to play a role in protecting the environment of NSW. We partner with Aboriginal people, industry and the wider community to protect, restore and enhance our diverse ecosystems.
We bring scientific expertise, experience and actions to inspire innovative solutions as we transition our state to a circular economy.
As we respond to urgent current issues, including climate change, we educate and support our stakeholders to create an environmentally healthy future.
Join us on our mission to protect tomorrow together.
Why work for us?
EPA people are energised by our purpose and focussed on the environment and we invite all our team members to:
- Be part of protecting what matters – be purpose led making a meaningful impact to the environment, economy and communities delivering for a better NSW
- Do more and be inspired together – be members of passionate united teams who protect the environment and each other through care, trust and collaboration.
- Bring who you are and grow with us - we put people first creating a culture where everyone can be themselves, respecting and developing our diverse skills & aspirations and prioritising our safety and wellbeing.
Some additional benefits to working for us include:
- A competitive salary and leave entitlements, salary packaging to save tax, fitness passport and free & confidential counselling services
- Opportunities and pathways for learning and developing your skills with access to online and face to face training and mentoring
- Flexible work arrangements
- Opportunities to make an impact and help shape the future for our environment
- Interesting and challenging work aligning with personal values that allow you to reach your full potential
- Recognition programs
In our inclusive and accessible workplace, differences are embraced, contributions are valued, and everyone has a sense of connection and belonging. The EPA supports various employee affinity groups, practice flexible working, offer job share and workplace adjustments.
The EPA is an independent statutory authority which sits within the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
For more information on the work we do at NSW EPA, go to www.epa.nsw.gov.au/your-environment
To apply
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: Sunday 14 June 2026 at 11:55 PM
Should you require further information about the role please contact Kay Baxter, Manager Policy, via kay.baxter@epa.nsw.gov.au
Good to know
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.
If you are deemed as a recommended candidate following your interview, we will be inviting you to complete various background checks as part of our recruitment process before a final decision is made on the outcome of your application.
Our background checks may include, but are not limited to Reference Checks, National Police Checks, Working with Children and Medical Checks. The background checks will vary depending on the requirements of the role you have applied for and the work and environments you will be working across.
Capability application tool
The capability application tool helps job applicants understand and use the NSW Public Sector Capability Framework when applying for jobs with the NSW government. To access the tool, please click here.
Looking for more information or assistance in applying?
We encourage and support applications from people with disability. We can provide alternative formats to apply, make adjustments to the recruitment process, and offer information about workplace adjustments and support networks, ensuring that you have every opportunity to showcase your talent, skills, and potential. Please click here for more information.
If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at epa.recruitment@epa.nsw.gov.au and please mention reference number 550759.
If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or contact our Aboriginal Employment Pathways team for a yarn.
For more information on reasonable adjustments to recruitment processes, please click here.
