Policy Officer

Clerk Grade 7/8 starting at $113,574.00 + super & Leave

Location: Flexible across NSW (regional locations encouraged)

Ongoing role + Talent Pool for future opportunities

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development are looking for a Policy Officer to join a dynamic team contributing to the development of high-quality, evidence-based policy.

This role focuses on policy analysis, sound judgement and practical policy development, supporting informed decision-making across a range of priority areas. You will play a key role in researching issues, analysing options and delivering policy advice that drives effective outcomes.

What you’ll be doing

Undertake research and analysis to inform policy development and decision-making

Prepare briefings, submissions and discussion papers for a range of stakeholders

Contribute to the development and implementation of key strategic policies and programs

Analyse risks, impacts and stakeholder perspectives to support well-informed recommendations

Work collaboratively across teams and with stakeholders to support policy design and delivery

About you

You will bring:

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex information

Demonstrated sound judgement and the ability to provide balanced, evidence-based advice

Experience in policy development, research or advisory roles

Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills

Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver to tight timeframes

A collaborative approach and ability to engage with stakeholders across a range of contexts

Why join us

Work on meaningful policy initiatives that contribute to public outcomes

Flexible working arrangements with location negotiable across NSW

Opportunities for career development and progression

Supportive and collaborative team environment

Talent Pool

This recruitment will also create a Talent Pool to fill future ongoing and temporary roles across similar policy functions.

Applying is easy! 

Please apply via our online portal and submit: 

A CV (max. 4 pages) 

A cover letter (approx. 1 page) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role. 

For More information, please view the Role Description.

For a Confidential discussion about the role, you may contact Keelan Birch, A/Principal Policy Officer on keelan.birch@dpird.nsw.gov.au or 0448 037 654

Applications close:  11:55PM Thursday, 28th May 2026

After applying: 

You’ll receive a confirmation email 

We’ll review all applications once the ad closes 

If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video) 

Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test) 

Reference checks will be completed for final candidates   

The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required. 

A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 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.   

We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across NSW. With more than 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.   

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.   

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer 

We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.   

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.