The Cabinet Office

Senior Associate

You. At the centre of big ideas.

• Lead major policy reforms on projects that shape NSW's future
• Expert in complex policy analysis and cross-governmental advice
• Ongoing Clerk Grade 9/10 opportunity within the Planning and Housing branch based in Sydney

Shape high-impact policy for NSW, advising the Premier on major reforms and leading cross-sector projects in a dynamic, high-profile government team

About the Role

You will join our team within the Planning and Housing branch in the Economic Housing and Infrastructure group.

In this role, the Senior Associate will lead complex urban planning, housing, and homelessness policy and project work that shapes the strategic direction of government priorities, delivering high-level analysis and advice to the Premier and executive leadership.

The Senior Associate is expected to drive major service delivery reforms and state-significant initiatives, often in a dynamic environment requiring agility, collaboration, and strong stakeholder engagement.

Key priorities include developing evidence-based policy recommendations, reviewing high-impact Cabinet submissions, mentoring team members, and influencing outcomes through cross-sector consultation and intergovernmental collaboration.

To learn more about the role please review the Role Description.

We're Looking For

• Proven ability to lead complex policy and project work with strategic impact
• Experience advising senior executives or government on major policy issues
• Strong analytical skills to develop evidence-based, actionable policy advice
• Skilled in researching and evaluating emerging trends and government priorities
• Expertise in preparing high-quality briefings
• Demonstrated success managing stakeholder consultations and negotiations
• Ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships across sectors
• Experience supporting service delivery reform and cross-agency initiatives
• Effective communicator with experience tailoring messages for diverse audiences
• Strong leadership skills, including mentoring and supporting team development
• Advanced problem-solving and critical thinking in complex policy environments
• Skilled in managing competing priorities in fast-paced settings
• Experience applying project management principles across policy initiatives
• Tertiary qualifications or equivalent professional experience in a relevant field

We value diverse experiences. Even if you're not sure you meet all requirements, we encourage you to apply.

Why Join Us?

• Flexible Working: Broad range of flexible working arrangements
• Career Development: Ongoing learning through expert-led sessions, online training, and professional development opportunities
• Work-Life Balance: Flex time accrual for extra hours worked (for non-executive roles) based on a 35-hour standard week
• Wellbeing Support: Access to employee assistance program, fitness passport program, and wellbeing initiatives
• Inclusive Culture: Staff-led networks including Aboriginal Staff Advisory Committee, Diversity & Inclusion Network, and Young Professionals Network

How to Apply

Click 'Apply Online' and submit your application including:

• A resume detailing relevant knowledge, skills and experience (maximum 5 pages)
• A cover letter addressing how you meet the requirements of the role (maximum 2 pages)

Closing date: Wednesday, 18 June 2025 (9:59 AM)

Salary: Clerk Grade 9/10. Package includes base salary ($125,693 - $138,510) plus superannuation (11.5%) and leave loading.

Hiring Manager: Hugo Walton, Associate Director, Planning and Housing Policy, [email protected].

About The Cabinet Office

Leading policy, strategy and integrity from the heart of government

The Cabinet Office (TCO) enables robust Cabinet decision-making by ensuring policies and proposals submitted for consideration are of the highest quality and in line with government priorities. Learn more about the department and a career at The Cabinet Office.

Our Commitment

We welcome and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans and other diverse communities.

The Cabinet Office acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work and live. We pay respect to Ancestors and Elders past and present. We recognise and learn from the strengths of First Nations peoples of New South Wales and their continuing connection to, and unique cultural and spiritual relationship with, Country.

Additional Information

Reasonable Adjustments: The selection process will include assessment techniques to determine your suitability. You can request reasonable adjustments at any stage by indicating in pre-screening questions, contacting the Talent Team at [email protected], or reaching out to the hiring manager.

Talent Pool: A talent pool may be created from this recruitment process. If eligible, you may be contacted for ongoing and temporary opportunities in the same role or grade that become available over an 18-month period.