Senior Animal Welfare and Compliance Officer

• Full Time, 35 hours per week
• Ongoing role
• Location: Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations. Preference will be given to candidates based regionally, with a focus on Queanbeyan, Armidale, Dubbo and Coffs Harbour
• Professional Officer Grade 5 salary from $149,739 to $152,730 p.a commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience

Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive, reflecting the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds – including but not limited to; gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation to apply. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.  Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.

About the Role

Are you a registered veterinarian with a passion for improving animal welfare outcomes in scientific research? The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Senior Animal Welfare & Compliance Officer to ensure best practice animal welfare and compliance across our statewide research and development programs.

In this pivotal role, you will:

• Provide expert technical leadership in animal welfare and advise on proactive programs of veterinary care across large and small animals, wildlife and aquatic animals.
• Develop and implement structured training and competency frameworks for staff involved in animal care and use.
• Monitor compliance and conduct animal welfare assessments across diverse research projects and sites.
• Collaborate with Animal Ethics Committees (AECs) and research teams to ensure best practice and legislative compliance.
• Drive continuous improvement in rehoming strategies and behavioural interventions for animals used in scientific work.

You'll be part of a dynamic team within the Agriculture and Biosecurity Group, helping shape the future of ethical research practices and safeguarding the welfare of all DPIRD's animals.

About You

You are a registered veterinarian with a strong understanding of animal research ethics and welfare legislation, and research compliance. You bring:

• Proven experience working with animal ethics committees and researchers.
• A proactive and collaborative approach to improving animal welfare outcomes.
• The ability to navigate complex, sensitive environments with professionalism and integrity.
• Strong communication and leadership skills to influence and educate across diverse teams.
• A current NSW Driver Licence and willingness to travel regularly.

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in animal welfare and scientific research, we'd love to hear from you.

Applying is easy

Submit your current Resume/CV (max. 5 pages) and a Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) outlining your relevant skills and experience, and why you're our ideal candidate.

If you'd like to know more about the role, please view the Role Description - PO5 - Senior Animal Welfare and Compliance

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact  Angela Cleall on or

Applications close: Sunday 2 November 2025 at 11:55pm AEST

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre- employment testing, require information in an alternative format, or otherwise participating in the recruitment process, please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.

Additional Information

The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.

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.

About us

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 nearly 5,000 employees, and 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.

DPIRD is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates.