Aboriginal Policy Officer (Identified)

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

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Aboriginal Identified Opportunity
• Aboriginal Policy Officer
• Environment Officer Class 7
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $109,102 to $120,542 + super
• Ongoing full-time opportunity
• Based in Parramatta (location negotiable) - Hybrid working supported

Heritage NSW works with communities to protect, celebrate and manage our incredible heritage across NSW. If you are keen to be a part of a high performing policy team that helps conserve and protect the Aboriginal, built and archaeological heritage of NSW, then this is the job for you!

This is an Aboriginal Identified role where Aboriginal identity, cultural knowledge or connections are a genuine aspect of the role. Positions are specifically noted under the provisions of the NSW Anti-discrimination Act (1977). 

About the role

We are looking for a Policy Officer to join our team in delivering strategic policy outcomes to support the NSW Government’s priorities for heritage. We provide strategic support to the Minister for Heritage, DCCEEW executive, the Heritage Council of NSW, and the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee.

The role will support the development of strategic advice on interagency and intergovernmental reviews, and drive legislative, policy and regulatory change. This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly skilled and passionate policy team.

As a key member of the team, you will:

• have experience in policy formation, research or analysis
• undertake in-depth research, analysis and reviews to support the identification of innovative solutions to complex policy problems
• prepare and support the delivery of a range of written material such as policies, guidelines, reports, submissions, and associated correspondence
• engage with a variety of internal and external stakeholders including coordinating working groups and committees
• undertake policy and guideline development and implementation including the preparation of associated communication and promotional material.

About You

As an Aboriginal Policy Officer, you will have a background in research or policy analysis and development and can identify and implement innovative solutions to complex challenges. You take initiative, think critically and have strong analytical, communication and collaboration skills.

Knowledge and Experience

• Understanding of contemporary public policy issues and the complexities of policy debates.
• The capacity to develop an understanding of government and public administration and legislative processes and protocols

Essential requirements

• Tertiary qualification or demonstrated experience in policy development, heritage, Aboriginal cultural heritage or relevant field.
• This is an Identified role under Section 14d of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 and as such Aboriginality is an essential requirement of the role. Aboriginal identified positions are developed where Aboriginal identity, cultural knowledge or connections are a genuine aspect of the role. Positions are specifically noted under the provisions of the NSW Anti-discrimination Act (1977) for Aboriginal people who meet the following criteria:

1. is of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent, and
2. identifies as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person, and
3. is accepted as such by the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.

For more information read the full Role Description: Aboriginal Policy Officer (Identified)

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: Tuesday 14 October 2025 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Nicholas Lackner via nick.lackner@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on (02) 9585 6158.

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 dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Tori Basnet on 0400 543 556 (please mention reference number 545236).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. 

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