Shape your world, in the team that shapes NSW communities, spaces and economies

• Principal Status Officer
• Temporary Full Time Opportunity up to 30 June 2027
• Office location – Newcastle preferred, other locations (Parramatta/Dubbo/Orange) considered.
• Salary ranges from $116,981 - $129,492 plus super

We're looking for a Principal Status Officer who thrives on solving complex problems, digging into the details, and finding answers where others see roadblocks.

We're seeking a self-starter who can think critically, work independently, and confidently navigate complex land status investigations. If you're naturally curious, motivated, and enjoy piecing together historical records, legislation, data, and evidence to solve challenging problems, we'd love to hear from you.

The Role

As a Principal Status Officer, you'll play a critical role in supporting the State's position on Crown land matters by leading and coordinating detailed land status investigations and providing reliable, defensible advice and information.

What You'll Be Doing

You will:

• Analyse and assess complex historical and contemporary land information from both manual and computerised records.
• Determine the validity and reliability of data used to establish land status outcomes.
• Provide expert advice and support to internal and external customers, including government agencies and local councils, on land status matters.
• Assess the scope and methodology required for investigations, ensuring research is thorough, accurate and fit for purpose.
• Prepare high-quality reports, correspondence and documentation supporting investigation outcomes.
• Manage projects and contribute to the development of systems and processes that improve investigation practices.
• Provide technical guidance, mentoring, quality assurance and review of investigations undertaken by Senior Status Officers.
• Work collaboratively with stakeholders while maintaining focus on strategic objectives and legislative requirements.

For more information, please visit the Role Description:  Principal Status Officer

About You

We're looking for someone who:

• Thinks for themselves and takes ownership of their work.
• Doesn't just identify problems but actively works towards solutions.
• Is motivated, proactive and reliable.
• Can balance competing priorities and meet critical deadlines.
• Has strong analytical skills and can make sense of complex or incomplete information.
• Enjoys investigating, researching and uncovering facts.
• Communicates clearly and confidently with a range of stakeholders.
• Exercises sound judgement when dealing with complex or sensitive matters.
• Can lead others while maintaining a strong focus on quality and accuracy.

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, Sunday 16^th August 2026.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Catherine Stokes, Manager Status via catherine.stokes@crownland.nsw.gov.au

A talent 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. 

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 (including an alternate format of the application form), 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. 

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. This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including a criminal record check.