Principal Policy Officer

Principal Policy Officer

Do you want to protect future generations?

Protect tomorrow together at the NSW EPA

• Join a purpose-led organisation and make a difference to the environment and our community
• Environment Officer Class 11
• Remuneration starting from $148,339 plus superannuation
• Enjoy employee benefits and flexible working options
• One temporary role available until 1 July 2027
• Role based in Parramatta

The opportunity
We have an exciting new opportunity for a Principal Policy Officer to develop and implement regulatory frameworks, policies, projects and guidance, as well as strategic and innovative solutions that enhance the EPA’s ability to regulate environmental matters and achieve broader environmental protection outcomes across NSW.

About you
You are a motivated and highly capable policy professional who thrives in complex, fast-paced environments and is passionate about delivering meaningful environmental outcomes for NSW.

You bring outstanding critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, strong communication skills, and experience in strategic policy analysis.

You have strong analytical skills, sound judgement, and the ability to translate complex issues into clear, practical and high-quality policy advice.

Environmental and planning experience would be highly regarded.

You will also bring:

• Detailed knowledge of Cabinet and legislative processes and the ability to understand and interpret a wide variety of legislation and expertise in policy development, implementation and review.
• Experience developing, implementing and reviewing public policy, regulatory frameworks or reform initiatives in complex government environments
• Ability to analyse complex technical, environmental, economic and strategic issues and translate them into clear, practical and evidence-based policy advice
• Experience preparing high-quality briefs, reports, correspondence and executive or Ministerial advice within tight timeframes
• Proven experience managing or contributing to policy projects, including coordinating multi-stakeholder inputs and delivering outcomes on time.

About the team
This role sits within the EPA’s Policy, Programs & Finance Division, which leads the design and delivery of key environmental policies, programs and strategic initiatives that support the EPA’s regulatory priorities and the NSW Government’s environmental agenda. You will be joining a passionate and high-performing division with a strong track record of delivering complex programs and innovative policy solutions, and a shared commitment to delivering meaningful environmental outcomes for the people of NSW.

For more information about the role, please read the Role Description – Principal Policy Officer

About us
As the environmental steward and regulator of our State we are committed to a sustainable future.

Our people are proud to play a role in protecting the environment of NSW. We partner with Aboriginal people, industry and the wider community to protect, restore and enhance our diverse ecosystems.

We bring scientific expertise, experience and actions to inspire innovative solutions as we transition our state to a circular economy.

As we respond to urgent current issues, including climate change, we educate and support our stakeholders to create an environmentally healthy future.

Join us on our mission to protect tomorrow together.

To apply
If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume (maximum 2 pages) and cover letter (maximum 2 pages), expressing your interest and suitability for the role, and response to the application questions below.

Application Questions:

1. Provide an example of how you have applied your know knowledge of Cabinet and legislative processes.
2. Provide an example of how you have been involved in one of the following; policy development, implementation and or policy review. 

For more information about working at the EPA and what to expect in our recruitment processes, please read our Candidate Information Pack

Applications close: 11:55 pm, Sunday, 6 September 2026


Should you require further information about the role, please contact Sarah Fuller at sarah.fuller@epa.nsw.gov.au

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion
If you require a reasonable adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at epa.recruitment@epa.nsw.gov.au and please mention reference REQ 551547. 

If you are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, please use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles, or contact our Aboriginal Employment Pathways team for a yarn. 

For more information on reasonable adjustments to recruitment processes, please click here.