Policy & Project Officer

NSW Government; Newcastle; On-site; AUD 117,000 - 129,000; Full time

Job summary

The NSW Government, Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, Newcastle-based opportunity, seeks a Policy and Project Officer to shape land and natural resource policy.

You will contribute to policy initiatives across NSW by developing policies, legislation, programs, and strategic directives while collaborating with government agencies, industry stakeholders, and senior decision-makers to provide evidence-based advice.

Qualifications

• Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.
• Experience preparing reports, briefs, or policy advice.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management.
• Ability to manage competing priorities across multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Contributing to the development and implementation of policy initiatives, legislation, reviews, programs, and services.
• Researching, analysing, and evaluating policy options to support informed decision-making.
• Preparing high-quality briefs, discussion papers, reports, and policy advice for senior executives, Ministers, and key stakeholders.
• Working collaboratively on projects that improve policy delivery and support strategic objectives.
• Building effective relationships with government agencies, industry groups, and peak bodies.
• Supporting Cabinet, legislative, and regulatory programs across the Division.

Skills

Research and analytical skills

Stakeholder engagement

Policy reporting and briefing

Communication of complex information

Project prioritization and multitask

Job description

Shape the future of land and natural resource management in NSW.

• Policy and Project Officer
• Ongoing Full Time Opportunity
• Office location – Newcastle preferred, other NSW office locations considered.
• Salary ranges from $116,981 - $129,492 plus super

Are you curious, analytical, and passionate about making a real impact through policy? We're looking for a Policy and Project Officer to contribute to important projects and policy initiatives that help guide the use and management of land and natural resources across New South Wales.

About the Role

As a Policy and Project Officer, you'll play a key role in supporting the development of policies, legislation, programs, and strategic initiatives that influence how land and natural resources are managed across the state.

You’ll work with subject matter experts, government agencies, industry stakeholders, and senior decision-makers to provide evidence-based advice and contribute to meaningful outcomes for communities across NSW.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Contributing to the development and implementation of policy initiatives, legislation, reviews, programs, and services.
• Researching, analysing, and evaluating policy options to support informed decision-making.
• Preparing high-quality briefs, discussion papers, reports, and policy advice for senior executives, Ministers, and key stakeholders.
• Working collaboratively on projects that improve policy delivery and support strategic objectives.
• Building effective relationships with government agencies, industry groups, and peak bodies.
• Supporting Cabinet, legislative, and regulatory programs across the Division.

About You

We're interested in candidates who can demonstrate:

• Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.
• Experience preparing reports, briefs, or policy advice.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and contribute to multiple projects.
• An interest in public policy, land management, environmental, natural resource, or government-related issues.

About us

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) improves the liveability and prosperity of NSW. To achieve this, we: create vibrant, productive spaces and precincts; manage lands, assets and property effectively and deliver affordable and diverse housing. We strive to be a high-performing, world-class public service organisation that celebrates and reflects the full diversity of the community we serve and builds the cultural capability of our department to improve outcomes with and for Aboriginal people, communities and entities.

We are an inclusive and accessible workplace, where your individual contributions are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to feel a sense of connection and belonging. DPHI supports various employee affinity groups, practices flexible working, offers job share and workplace adjustments.

Applications close 11:55pm, Wednesday 11th November 2026

Should you require further information about the role please contact Lynne Shields via [e-mail]

We encourage and support applications from people with disability. Please reach out to us to discuss any (including an alternate format of the application form) that may be needed during the recruitment process, ensuring that you have every opportunity to showcase your talent, skills, and potential. Contact the Talent Team via [e-mail] or [phone] - HR Support, option 2, DPHI People Advisory, option 1 and reference 'Request an Adjustment - Job Title and Reference Number'.

Check out our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for the role or contact our Aboriginal CareerPathways team for a yarn.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanentresident orhold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment.This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including a criminal record check.