Policy Officer - Aboriginal Identified

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development NSW; Orange City Council; On-site; AUD 117,000 - 129,000; Full time

Job summary

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development NSW is offering an Aboriginal Policy Officer role focused on delivering the Aboriginal Outcomes Strategy and embedding Aboriginal priorities across DPIRD.

The position sits in the Policy, Reform and Evidence Branch and involves policy development, research, engagement and reporting to support outcomes for Aboriginal communities and businesses in regional NSW.

Responsibilities

• Support the development, implementation and review of policies and initiatives that advance Aboriginal outcomes across so DPIRD.
• Undertake research, analysis and evidence gathering to inform strategic policy advice and decision-making.
• Build strong relationships with Aboriginal stakeholders, communities and internal partners to support meaningful engagement and collaboration.
• Contribute to reporting, monitoring and evaluation activities to track progress and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Prepare briefs, discussion papers, submissions and other policy documentation for senior leaders and decision-makers.
• Coordinate consultation activities, working groups and stakeholder forums to support policy development and implementation.

Job description

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development NSW – Orange NSW

• Location – Will considered all DPIRD NSW office locations
• Salary range $116,981pa - $129,492pa + super & leave loading
• See the impact on the country, in your community

An opportunity exists for an Aboriginal Policy Officer to support the successful implementation of DPIRD's Aboriginal Outcomes Strategy and help embed Aboriginal outcomes across one of NSW's largest and most diverse government departments.

Working within the Policy, Reform and Evidence Branch, you will contribute to strategic policy development, stakeholder engagement, reporting, monitoring and evaluation activities that support better outcomes for Aboriginal people, communities and businesses across regional and rural NSW. This role will play an important part in ensuring Aboriginal priorities are embedded, measured and delivered consistently across DPIRD

About the role

As a Policy Officer, you will:

• Support the development, implementation and review of policies and initiatives that advance Aboriginal outcomes across DPIRD.
• Undertake research, analysis and evidence gathering to inform strategic policy advice and decision-making.
• Build strong relationships with Aboriginal stakeholders, communities and internal partners to support meaningful engagement and collaboration.
• Contribute to reporting, monitoring and evaluation activities to track progress and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Prepare briefs, discussion papers, submissions and other policy documentation for senior leaders and decision-makers.
• Coordinate consultation activities, working groups and stakeholder forums to support policy development and implementation.

About you

We're looking for someone who:

• Has a strong understanding of Aboriginal community perspectives and a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for Aboriginal people.
• Can analyse information, identify emerging issues and develop practical policy solutions.
• Builds trusted relationships and works collaboratively across diverse stakeholder groups.
• Communicates clearly and can prepare high-quality written materials for a variety of audiences.
• Is organised, proactive and able to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Values integrity, accountability and working inclusively with others.

What is the process?

The process starts with you submitting your application. Once your application has been received, you will receive an email confirmation and further correspondence when the role advertisement closes.

You might be asked to attend an interview (either via video, over the phone or face to face) or complete a written or other assessment task.

Application Closing Date: Sunday 27th September 2026 at 11.55pm

Aboriginal Identified Role

This is an Aboriginal Identified position and is open only to Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Applicants must be of Aboriginal descent, identify as Aboriginal and be accepted by their community. Aboriginality is a genuine occupational qualification authorised under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW)

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 the majority of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.

Diversity and inclusion are core DPIRD values. Everyone has the right to contribute and participate to their full potential. We are committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive culture that is respectful, welcoming and flexible – a workplace where our people feel supported, valued, and part of our collective success.

Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD 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.