Principal Policy Officer

This is a senior policy leadership opportunity for someone who can navigate complexity and competing interests, build trusted relationships and turn evidence into practical policy outcomes.

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Demonstrated experience leading the development and implementation of complex public policy projects and preparing evidence-based, risk-informed advice for senior executives and government decision-makers.

• Knowledge of, or the capacity to rapidly acquire knowledge of, fisheries management, natural resource management and/or native title, including relevant legislative and regulatory frameworks.

• Proven ability to engage, influence and negotiate with government agencies, industry and community representatives, including Aboriginal stakeholders, on complex or contested matters.

• An ability to see issues from multiple perspectives, rapidly assess and analyse trade-offs, and clearly communicate complex policy considerations to decision makers, operational staff and stakeholders

• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing significant policy initiatives, reforms or programs in a complex operating environment.

• Strong analytical, communication and project management skills, with the resilience to deliver quality outcomes in high-pressure and unpredictable situations.

• A commitment to supporting and developing high-performing teams

For further information about the role, please contact Dan McGrath at dan.mcgrath@dpird.nsw.gov.au. You can also view the role description 2026.09 - Role Description - Clerk 11-12 - Principal Policy Officer - FINAL (2).DOCX

At DPIRD, we're committed to protecting and growing NSW's primary industries while supporting regional communities. When you join us, you'll:

• Work on meaningful projects that shape the future of fisheries and forestry.

• Enjoy flexible work arrangements and the option to work from regional locations.

• Access professional development opportunities to grow your career.

• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values diversity and innovation.

• 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.

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 the majority 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.