Principal Policy Officer

• Temporary, full-time up to 6 months
• Location – All of NSW
• Clerk Grade 11/12, salary starting from $149,739 - $173,174 per annum plus super and leave loading

Diversity and inclusion are core DPIRD values. Everyone has the right to contribute and participate to their full potential. We are committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive culture that is respectful, welcoming and flexible – a workplace where our people feel supported, valued, and part of our collective success.

About the Role

As our Principal Policy Officer, you will be at the forefront of driving evidence-based policy advice for the Minister, ensuring transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in the administration of animal welfare compliance and enforcement.

You'll lead a team of dedicated policy professionals and technical experts, championing reform and delivering robust, well-balanced solutions that improve outcomes for animals, communities, and government.

In this role, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership and inspire a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and knowledge sharing.
• Shape and oversee the delivery of critical reforms in animal welfare legislation, compliance, and enforcement.
• Engage with senior leaders across government and external stakeholders to influence, align, and deliver impactful policy solutions.
• Represent the Department on key cross-government and interjurisdictional forums, advocating for the Government's priorities and values.
• Drive high-quality decision-making through critical analysis, risk management, and strategic resource planning.

We're looking for someone who is:

• A seasoned policy leader with the ability to navigate complexity and deliver meaningful change.
• Skilled at building strong relationships and forging partnerships across government and beyond.
• A confident communicator and negotiator who can represent the Government with authority.
• Committed to delivering evidence-based, transparent, and forward-looking animal welfare outcomes.

This is more than a policy role, it's an opportunity to lead reform that makes a real difference. If you are driven by purpose, inspired by challenge, and motivated to leave a legacy, we want to hear from you.

Apply now and be part of something bigger

When applying you will need to submit a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) outlining your experience skills and capabilities that align to the role and a resume.

If you'd like to know more about the role, please click here to view the role description.

Application Closing Date: Thursday 9 October 2025, 11:55pm

Additionally, if you would like to hear more about this role, please contact Matthew Barrett on or email

Additional Information

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. The successful applicant in this role will be required to undergo reference checks, National Police Check and Bankruptcy Check.

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.

About us: Together, we are DPIRD

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.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is proud to announce that we have achieved Disability Confident Recruiter status, by Australian Disability Network. DPIRD is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates.