Veterinary Policy & Program Officer

• Ongoing Full Time, 35 hours per week 
• 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 G1-4 - $78,000 to $149,805 commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience as outlined in the Crown Employees (Department of Regional NSW) Professional Officers Award and the Professional Officer Progression Criteria (1-4) 

About the Role

As a Veterinary Policy & Program Officer, you will contribute to the development and delivery of evidence-based animal biosecurity policies, programs and initiatives that protect NSW's livestock industries, animal welfare and public health outcomes.

Working within a collaborative team, you will undertake research and analysis, provide technical and policy advice, coordinate projects and engage with a diverse range of stakeholders across government, industry and the biosecurity sector. You will help identify and respond to emerging animal health and biosecurity issues while supporting preparedness and response activities for biosecurity emergencies and natural disasters.

This role will act as the NSW Sheep Coordinator and will be responsible for biosecurity policy and programs related to the NSW sheep industry.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone seeking to apply their veterinary, animal health or policy expertise to influence strategic outcomes at a state-wide level.

About You

You will be a collaborative and analytical professional with a passion for animal health, biosecurity and public policy. You thrive in a dynamic environment where you can apply your technical expertise to influence policy outcomes, build strong stakeholder relationships and contribute to initiatives that protect NSW's animal industries and communities. You will have strong knowledge and experience in sheep biosecurity and the NSW sheep industry.

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Strong research, analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex information and develop practical policy and program solutions.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement capabilities, with the ability to build productive relationships across government, industry and the broader biosecurity sector.
• Experience preparing high-quality briefs, reports, discussion papers or policy advice, and coordinating projects to achieve agreed outcomes.
• Strong knowledge of animal health, animal welfare, biosecurity, emergency management or a related field, with a commitment to evidence-based decision making.

Essential criteria:

• Veterinary Science degree registrable in NSW
• Experience in biosecurity risk management
• Current NSW Driver Licence
• Adept at using Microsoft Office apps and electronic record keeping

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Rhys Powell on 04•• ••• 829 or email rhys.powell@dpird.nsw.gov.au

You can also click here to view the Role Description

Applications close: Thursday 27 August 2026 at 11:55pm AEST

Applying is easy!

Please apply via our online portal and submit:

✅ A CV (approx. 4 pages)

✅ A cover letter (approx. 1 page) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

After applying:

• You’ll receive a confirmation email
• We’ll review all applications once the ad closes
• If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test)
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates  
• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.
• A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months. 

Why Join Us?

At DPIRD, we’re committed to protecting and growing NSW’s primary industries while supporting regional communities. When you join us, you’ll:

• Work on meaningful projects that shape the future of agriculture and biosecurity.
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements and the option to work from regional locations.
• Access professional development opportunities to grow your career.
• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values diversity and innovation.

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 the majority of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve. 

Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team. 

Additional Information 

The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and 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. 

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

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.   

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer 

We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au  or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.   

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.