Policy Officer

NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development; Sydney; Hybrid; AUD 117,000 - 129,000; Full time

Job summary

The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is seeking an experienced Policy Officer to join the Policy, Reform and Evidence team. You will develop evidence-based policy advice to support government decision-making and regional development across NSW, preparing briefs, submissions and papers and providing project support on strategic policy matters.

You will work in a collaborative environment, engaging with stakeholders across government, delivering high-quality outcomes

Qualifications

• Experience in policy development and evidence-based advice.
• Strong research and analytical capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate with diverse government stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Prepare policy briefs, submissions and papers for government decision-making.
• Contribute to development of evidence-based policy advice.
• Provide project support across strategic policy matters.
• Collaborate with subject matter experts and stakeholders across government.

Skills

Policy analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Research

Communication

Policy writing

Job description

• 35 hours per week
• Full-time ongoing opportunity
• Location: Sydney or Regional NSW, with hybrid working options
• Clerk Grade 7/8 | Salary from $116,981.00 to $ 129,492.00 plus super and leave loading

About the role

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is seeking an experienced Policy Officer in the Policy, Reform and Evidence team.

As a Policy Officer, you will contribute to the development of evidence-based policy advice that supports government decision-making and delivers positive outcomes for primary industries and regional development across NSW.

You will prepare policy briefs, submissions and papers and provide project support across a range of strategic policy matters. This is an exciting opportunity to work on complex and impactful issues while collaborating with subject matter experts and stakeholders from across government.

About You

You are a curious and analytical professional with strong research and communication skills. You can quickly understand complex issues, analyse information from a variety of sources and develop practical, evidence-based recommendations.

You thrive in collaborative environments, build productive working relationships and are confident communicating with a diverse range of stakeholders within Government. You are highly organised, able to manage competing priorities and deliver high-quality outcomes within tight timeframes. Most importantly, you demonstrate integrity, sound judgement and a commitment to public sector values while contributing to meaningful policy outcomes for NSW communities.

Closing Date: 11:55pm Sunday, 25 October 2026.

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, which may be held in person, by phone or by 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.

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.

About Us

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is dedicated to growing primary industries and supporting regional economic development to deliver long-term benefits to NSW. Our focus is to protect, support and develop our primary industries, mining sector and regions.

The department brings together Agriculture and Biosecurity; Forestry and Fishing; Local Land Services; NSW Resources; Regional Development and Delivery; the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation; NSW Public Works; and Soil Conservation Service.

The Policy, Reform and Evidence Branch leads cross-cutting policy and reform initiatives underpinned by robust data, analysis and evidence. The branch works with teams across the department to ensure government decisions are informed by evidence, expert advice and stakeholder views.

Why work for us?

We work hard every day to support and grow thriving communities across regional NSW, with a focus on delivering outcomes that will have a positive impact for generations to come.

• Deliver with impact. You will contribute to important policy and reform priorities that support regional NSW, primary industries and local communities.
• Connect to what matters. You will work with passionate, connected teams and build strong relationships across government, industry and regional communities.
• Live your way. We support flexible working arrangements that help you find the balance that works for you and the team.

Additional Information

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.

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, cultural background, disability, religion and sexual orientation, to submit an application. We strive to ensure every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.