Senior Policy Officer

Job no: 508416
Work type: Ongoing full-time
Location: Various locations
Categories: Policy

Apply now
  • Full time ongoing role available
  • All DPIRD office locations will be considered
  • Salary from $129K pa to $142K pa + super

Flex Your Policy Wings!

As a Senior Policy Officer, you’ll be part of a collaborative team that values diverse perspectives and evidence-based thinking. You’ll help shape policies that make a meaningful impact and influence the future of mineral and energy resources in NSW.

What You’ll Do
In this role, you will:

  • Lead strategic policy development by preparing briefings and advice for Ministerial and Executive requests.
  • Review policies and legislation, providing expert advice to stakeholders.
  • Identify issues, recommend solutions, and mitigate risks through proactive policy responses.
  • Prepare Cabinet Minutes and respond to referred Cabinet matters promptly.
  • Support the legislative program by assisting in drafting Bills and regulations, and engaging stakeholders.
  • Represent the Department in forums, offering strategic advice and gathering feedback.
  • Collaborate across teams to coordinate policy work and share insights for informed decision-making.

Your Impact
This is a great opportunity to get involved in policy development on significant Government issues including how we manage the shift away from coal while supporting the responsible development of critical and high-tech metals, which underpin the energy transition.  

You’ll contribute to a wide range of policy areas that support responsible resource management, environmental sustainability, and economic development. Your work will help ensure NSW’s mineral and energy resources are governed by clear, effective, and forward-thinking policies.

Who You Are
You’ll need to be someone who is flexible and adaptable, can respond quickly when situations change, and be confident working within politically sensitive environments.

You’ll thrive in a collaborative environment but also be able to also work independently with limited supervision as required.

You’ll also have strong communication skills, being able to tailor communication to diverse audiences, explaining complex concepts clearly, and writing fluently in plain English

We’re looking for someone who:

  • Holds relevant tertiary qualifications and/or has demonstrated experience in policy development 
  • Brings a strategic mindset and a strong understanding of government processes, including Cabinet and legislative frameworks.
  • Communicates clearly and confidently with diverse audiences.
  • Thrives in dynamic environments and can manage competing priorities.
  • Values collaboration, inclusion, and continuous learning.

Why Join Us?
Working for NSW Resources offers a range of benefits and opportunities that make it an attractive place to build your career. You’ll be part of a team that offers:

  • Impactful Work
  • Professional Development
  • A Collaborative Environment
  • A Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
  • Supportive Leadership

Take the Next Step!
If you’re passionate about public policy and want to help shape the future of NSW’s resources sector, we encourage you to apply.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply with an (ideally no more than one-page) cover letter outlining your suitability and interest in this role, with your resume (ideally no more than three pages) by 11.55pm, Sunday 3 August 2025.

For more information on the role please contact Elspeth Ritter, Manager Policy on 0433 695 242 or via elspeth.ritter@regional.nsw.gov.au. You can also download the Role Description.

Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to 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 submit an application. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers. 

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre- employment testing, 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 and a member of the team will contact you for a confidential discussion. 

What to expect next
Once you submit your application, you’ll receive an email confirmation. After the advertisement closes, all applications will be reviewed by the hiring manager and/or selection panel. If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview—this could be in person, over the phone, or via video. You may also be asked to complete role-related tasks, such as a written assessment, skills test, video or psychometric assessment. Reference checks will be conducted for candidates progressing to the final stages.

Please note:
A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next eighteen months. 

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.

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.

Advertised: AUS Eastern Standard Time
Application close: AUS Eastern Standard Time

Apply now

Back to list Refer a friend