Principal Policy Officer

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Lead high-profile environmental reforms and provide strategic advice that shapes policy outcomes across NSW Government.
• Temporary, full-time opportunity (Up to June 2029) 35 hours per week
• Office location Parramatta, hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $148,339 to $163,480 + super

Are you looking to make a meaningful contribution to threatened species conservation in NSW?

Our Strategic Policy, Science and Engagement team is currently seeking to appoint a Principal Policy Officer to lead strategic policy and reform initiatives that support environmental outcomes across NSW. The role will help shape conservation decisions that protect some of NSW's most vulnerable wildlife and ecosystems by contributing to the development of threatened species nature strategy policy.

As a Principal Policy Officer, you will lead complex policy projects and reforms that help shape environmental policy and regulatory frameworks across NSW. Working with senior leaders, government agencies and key stakeholders, you will provide strategic advice, develop innovative policy solutions and guide initiatives through government decision-making processes. You will play a key role in influencing policy outcomes, managing stakeholder engagement and delivering reforms that support the protection of threatened species, ecosystems and the broader environment.

You are an experienced policy professional with a strong background in policy development, analysis and project delivery. You can navigate complex policy issues, assess evidence and develop high-quality advice that informs strategic decision-making. Your experience leading policy, program or regulatory initiatives enables you to identify practical solutions and drive outcomes in complex operating environments.

You are a confident communicator and trusted advisor who can engage effectively with senior executives, government agencies and diverse stakeholders. You build collaborative relationships, influence outcomes and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. You bring sound judgement, strategic thinking and strong project management skills, with a focus on delivering meaningful environmental and policy outcomes.

• Significant experience in program and project design, implementation and evaluation.
• Experience in policy analysis and development with the ability to identify and implement innovative solutions.
• Understanding of the machinery of Government and the policy process.

For more information read the full Role Description:  Principal Policy Officer

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.

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.

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. 

Should you require further information about the role please contact Bryony Horton bryony.horton@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 02 6650 7120.

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.

• 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 dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Gabriella Schulzer on 9585 6521 (please mention reference number 552158).

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 AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. 

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Advertised: 04 Sep 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: 20 Sep 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time

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