Director Licensing

Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state's biodiversity and heritage.

Lead the strategic direction of licensing and approvals across NSW, shaping regulatory outcomes that protect biodiversity, uphold animal welfare, and build public trust in environmental compliance.

• Ongoing full-time opportunity
• Office location upon negotiation across NSW, hybrid working supported
• Senior Executive Band 1 - Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $224,226 to $249,172 TRP

Our Conservation Programs, Heritage and Regulation team is currently seeking to appoint a Director Licencing and Approvals to lead a team responsible for delivering licensing and approval functions under key legislation including the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and the Animal Research Act 1975. You'll lead the design, implementation, review and evaluation of state-wide licensing and approval programs that support biodiversity and heritage protection across NSW.

The role involves working closely with internal teams, senior executives, and external stakeholders across government, industry and community sectors to shape licensing outcomes and drive improvements. You'll be part of a newly established regulator with a strong focus on collaboration, integrity, and building a positive team culture that supports professional growth and shared purpose.

About You

You bring experience in regulation, licensing, or environmental compliance, and you understand how legislation like the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and the Animal Research Act 1975 applies in practice. You've led teams through complex policy and operational challenges, and you're confident managing programs that require careful balancing of stakeholder interests, legal obligations, and public expectations. You're comfortable working with senior leaders, government agencies, and community groups, and you know how to guide decisions with clear, evidence-based advice.

You're someone who leads with integrity and clarity. You support your team's development, encourage collaboration, and foster a culture of accountability and respect. You communicate well—whether it's navigating a sensitive issue, presenting at a forum, or working through a policy challenge with colleagues. You're organised, thoughtful, and focused on delivering practical outcomes that improve regulatory effectiveness and build trust. Most importantly, you care about making a meaningful contribution to biodiversity and heritage outcomes across NSW.

Essential Requirements

• Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline and/or equivalent experience

For more information read the full Role Description: Director, Licensing and Approvals

Who we are

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state's environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state's natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

To Apply

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close Sunday, 23rd November 2025 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Adam Gilligan via

A recruitment 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.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. 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.

Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing or contacting Stacey Cooper on please mention reference number

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at for a yarn. 

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