The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) lead the sustainable development of Western Australia’s regions and agriculture, aquaculture, food and fisheries sectors. In everything we do, we take an approach to protect, grow and innovate WA’s economy, community and environment.

About the opportunity

There is currently one (1), 6 month fixed-term full time position with the possibility of extension and/or permanency available for immediate filling.

As a Principal Policy Officer, you will lead the development, implementation, and review of strategic policy initiatives focused on improving Western Australia’s biosecurity system, ensuring alignment with departmental goals and broader government priorities. You will provide high-level, evidence-based policy advice on a diverse range of complex issues, and collaborate with stakeholders across government and industry to drive coordinated and effective biosecurity outcomes.

We are looking for individuals with:

Demonstrated high-level policy support and advice, including strategic policy formulation, implementation, review and evaluation, particularly in complex policy contexts.

Strong ability to analyse and interpret complex policy and regulatory systems and translate insights into effective strategic action.

Proven ability to lead and manage staff and foster a collaborative work environment, including building effective working relationships with external stakeholders.

Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities and deliver high-quality outcomes in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

For further information and special requirements for this role please see attached Job Description Form (JDF).

Equity and Diversity

At DPIRD we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and are an equal opportunity employer. We value and strongly encourage people with disabilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, women and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to apply for positions within our agency.

How to Apply

Click the Apply button and attach the following to your application:

A comprehensive CV that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements including details of two (2) referees.

A cover letter of no more than two (2) pages in length demonstrating how your skills, knowledge and experience relate to this opportunity.

It is recommended that you consider all information contained in the advertisement and any other related information. All Work-Related Requirements will be assessed at some stage during the selection process.

Need further information?

For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Rebecca Heath, Assistant Director Biosecurity Reform, on 9690 2171 during office hours.

If you experience technical difficulties applying online, please contact the RAMS Helpdesk on 1300 733 056 in first instance. For further information about the recruitment process please contact our Employment team on (08) 6552 1943.

Employment Conditions and Additional Information

DPIRD is an Emergency Management Agency and all employees may be required to work or travel during, or outside of, normal business hours to assist with incidents and emergencies.

Am I eligible to apply?

To be eligible for a permanent appointment to the Western Australian public sector you must be an Australian citizen or have permanent residency status in Australia. To be eligible for a fixed term or a casual appointment you must have documentary evidence of your entitlement to live and work in Australia for the period as part of your application.

You will be required to provide a current National Police Certificate (police clearance) before commencing employment. If not currently held, this must be acquired prior to appointment at applicant’s expense.

This process may be used to fill other same/similar fixed term, permanent, vacancies that arise in DPIRD at locations listed in this advert. In addition to this, should the successful applicant decline or vacate the advertised position, the panel may select another suitable applicant from this selection process. Both of these options remain valid for a period of twelve (12) months from the approval of the initial recruitment decision.

The recruitment process may include online written assessments, psychometric, cognitive or other testing, job-related tasks, video or live stream interviews, documentation and reference checks or other assessment methodologies as required. We reserve the right to supplement the field of applicants via an executive search if required.

Please ensure you have plenty of time to submit your application to allow for unanticipated problems, as late and proforma applications will not be accepted. (Please note: Online lodgement is system generated. Any submissions on or after 4:00pm will not be accepted)