Senior Policy Officer

NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure; Sydney; Hybrid; AUD 143,000 - 153,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

Flex leave

Job summary

NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure invites applications for a Senior Policy Officer based in Parramatta with flexible working options. You will lead the development, implementation, review and evaluation of environmental policy initiatives, delivering evidence-based policy advice to support government priorities.

The role requires a degree in public policy, planning, law, ecology or environmental science, and a strategic, collaborative mindset to engage with internal units,

Qualifications

• Degree in public policy, planning, law, ecology, environmental science, or related discipline is essential.
• Strong analytical, communication and project management abilities are required.
• Ability to work with internal units, legal teams, regional stakeholders and government agencies to develop and evaluate policy initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, implementation, review and evaluation of complex environmental policy initiatives.
• Provide evidence-based advice that informs government priorities.
• Collaborate with internal business units, legal and assessment teams, regional stakeholders and government agencies to build consensus and support policy development.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Degree in public policy, planning, law, ecology or environmental science

Job description

Shape your world through impact, growth and opportunity

• Work on what matters to communities as a Senior Policy Officer with DPHI
• Temporary full time until 30 June 2029 + creation of Talent Pool
• Parramatta office location with flexible working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $142,695 to $152,731 + super
  

Join the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure and play a key role in shaping planning policy that supports environmental outcomes, sustainable development and resilience across New South Wales. As a Senior Policy Officer, you will lead the development, implementation, review, and evaluation of complex environmental policy initiatives, providing evidence-based advice that contributes to government priorities.

Our team works best when collaborating, so we are seeking a strategic thinker with strong analytical, communication, and project management skills to work closely with internal business units, legal and assessment teams, regional stakeholders, and government agencies to build consensus, provide expert policy advice, and support informed policy development. Your tenure will spread across two interconnected business streams within the one division where your expertise will be valued.

A degree in public policy, planning, law, ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline is essential. If you are passionate about influencing public policy and delivering outcomes that improve the liveability and prosperity of NSW, we encourage you to apply.

Want to know more? Shape your world - Flexibility: A workplace that works with you

Join us in shaping thriving communities across NSW!

What’s in it for me?

Join our team for a fantastic culture with dynamic collaboration and genuine long-term career support. We offer flexibility in work arrangements, diverse and fulfilling assignments, and prioritise work/life balance and wellbeing with initiatives like flex leave and access to support programs. Additionally, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to succeed.

Applications close Tuesday 22 September 2026 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role, please contact Ruth O’Brien via [e-mail].

A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

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

We encourage and support applications from people with disability. Please reach out to us to discuss any accommodations or adjustments 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'.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident or hold 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.