• Full Time, 35 hours
• Ongoing role
• Location: Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations. Preference will be given to candidates based regionally, with a focus on Queanbeyan, Armidale, Dubbo and Coffs Harbour
• Clerk Grade 11/12 – Salary starting from $145,378.00 + super and leave loading

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.

About the Role

The Policy, Reform and Evidence Group of the Department of Primary Industries & Regional Development are looking for a Principal Policy Officer to join their team on an ongoing basis.

The Policy, Reform and Evidence Branch leads cross cutting policy and reform initiatives, underpinned by robust data, analysis and evidence. We work with teams across the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development to protect, support and develop primary industries and regional economies by ensuring that government decisions are informed by evidence, expert advice and stakeholder views.

We are looking for an experienced Principal Policy Officer to support strategic policy development and reform across the Primary Industries and Regional Development portfolio, with a particular focus on leading and supporting processes related to Native Title.

In this role, you will:

• Lead a team responsible for delivering innovative, evidence-based solutions to complex policy challenges impacting regional NSW.
• Act as a central policy development and coordination point for Native Title-related engagement, collaborating across DPIRD and the government.
• Support inter-agency discussions, drawing on subject matter expertise and ensuring the integration of technical and operational insights.
• Develop strategic, whole-of-government policy advice that reflects the needs of regional communities, industries, and Aboriginal stakeholders.
• Manage risks and ensure policy advice is consistent, robust, and aligned with DPIRD’s operational and strategic goals.
• Contribute to policy and reform processes, including preparing high-quality Cabinet submissions, ministerial briefings, and related supporting materials.
• Foster strong working relationships with stakeholders to drive regional development priorities and support meaningful engagement with Native Title holders and Aboriginal communities.

About You

We are seeking a strategic policy professional with a collaborative leadership style and experience in land and resource management. You work confidently across agencies, engage effectively with stakeholders, and understand the unique needs of regional NSW.

To be succeed in this role, you will have:

• Experience driving complex policy initiatives, particularly in land and resource management.
• Knowledge and experience of Native Title.
• Strong understanding of the policy cycle, including Cabinet and legislative processes.
• The ability to turn evidence and engagement into practical policy solutions.
• Political and organisational awareness with a focus on risk and delivery.
• Excellent communication skills and confidence engaging senior stakeholders.
• A supportive leadership approach that fosters innovation and collaboration.

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 Nick Peters, 0429 222 538, nick.peters@dpird.nsw.gov.au

Applications close: Wednesday 23^rd July 2025 at 11:55pm AEST

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.

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 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, or psychometric assessment. Reference checks will be conducted for candidates progressing to the final stages.

The successful applicant may also be required to undergo a police check, health assessment, and other relevant checks as part of the recruitment process.

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.

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.