Principal Policy Officer

Job Details; Newcastle; Hybrid; ZAR 1 705 000 - 1 873 000; Full time

Job summary

A government entity in NSW is seeking a Principal Policy Officer to lead high-impact policy initiatives aimed at the conservation of threatened species and ecosystems. The role involves coordinating strategic policy advice, engaging with stakeholders, and analyzing data to develop effective conservation policies. Candidates should have a strong background in environmental policy, demonstrated project management capability, and the ability to provide clear, evidence-based advice to senior management. This is a full-time opportunity based in Newcastle with hybrid working options.

Qualifications

• Experience in developing evidence-based policy and strategy.
• Ability to manage complex projects and budgets.
• Strong background in threatened species and conservation policy.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate strategic policy advice for conservation efforts.
• Analyses social, economic, political trends to inform policy.
• Engage with senior management and stakeholders for policy development.

Skills

Policy development

Strategic thinking

Stakeholder engagement

Budget management

Education

Degree in environmental science, policy, or related field

Job description

Principal Policy Officer – Job Details Newcastle, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Lead high‑impact policy and shape strategy and direction for threatened species and ecosystem conservation in NSW
• Permanent, full‑time (35 hours per week) opportunity
• Newcastle office location; across NSW negotiable; hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience and ranges from $152,677 to $167,562 super

The Strategic Policy Science and Engagement Group supports the Minister and the DCCEEW Executive by leading strategic policy shaping whole‑of‑government environment agendas and providing high‑quality advice on complex issues. As a Principal Policy Officer you will contribute to high‑impact policy projects at the intersection of science, conservation and government decision‑making, working collaboratively across government to design and drive legislative and regulatory reforms that guide policies through Cabinet and Parliamentary processes to deliver long‑term environmental and societal outcomes.

In this role you will:

• Lead and coordinate strategic policy advice to support conservation in NSW with a focus on threatened species and ecosystems.
• Provide clear evidence‑based advice informed by research data and a deep understanding of legislative and policy frameworks.
• Represent NSW in cross‑agency and inter‑jurisdictional forums, contributing to national policy discussions and inquiries.
• Partner with senior managers and central agencies to integrate scientific research, operational realities and existing programs into policy outcomes.
• Engage with executive ministerial offices and stakeholders to develop reforms and guide policies through Cabinet and Parliamentary processes.
• Analyse social, economic, political and policy trends to inform forward‑looking, resilient policy.

About You

You are an experienced policy professional with a strong background in threatened species and conservation policy, with a proven track record in developing evidence‑based policy and strategy. You are highly capable of Policy and Assistant Policy Officers and can manage project budgets effectively. You thrive in a complex policy environment, demonstrating sound judgement, strategic thinking and the ability to navigate corporate frameworks, budget considerations and business plans to achieve impactful outcomes. You can also prioritise your and your team’s work effectively in a busy policy environment. Your expertise allows you to provide clear, authoritative advice to senior management and the Minister while fostering collaboration across government and within the DCCEEW. You are committed to delivering policies that are evidence‑based, practical and aligned with NSW’s conservation priorities, and you bring the depth of experience to guide significant policy initiatives from development through to implementation.

To Apply

We look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and a 2‑page cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Please also note that to be eligible for an ongoing role in the NSW Public Sector you need to be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident. For temporary and casual roles you need to hold a valid visa giving you permission to work in Australia as required by the role.

Applications close 15 February 2026 at 11:55 PM.

People We Welcome

We are committed to building a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI community and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. We encourage and support people with disability and provide information and adjustments for individual needs throughout the recruitment process and the workplace.