Principal Project Officer

NSW Department of Planning

Sydney NSW (Hybrid)

Natural Resources & Water (Mining, Resources & Energy)

Government - State (Government & Defence)

Full time

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Together we shape thriving communities, public spaces, places and economies.

Permanent full-time (35 hours per week) opportunity

Based in NSW – DPHI office location negotiable. Flexible working supported.

Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $149,739 to $173,174 + super

What’s in it for me?

Join our team for a fantastic culture with dynamic collaboration and genuine long-term career support. We offer flexibility in work arrangements, diverse and fulfilling assignments, and prioritise work/life balance and wellbeing with initiatives like flex leave and access to support programs. Additionally, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to succeed.

The role

As Principal Project Officer in the Native Title Policy Team, you’ll lead a team delivering strategic projects that support Native Title outcomes and self-determination for First Nations communities. . You’ll manage everything from business cases and funding strategies to stakeholder engagement and project delivery—ensuring outcomes are achieved on time, on budget, and with integrity.

This role is about more than just project management—it’s about navigating complex and often sensitive conversations with First Nations stakeholders, balancing competing priorities, and making sure the work reflects cultural understanding and respect. You’ll need to think strategically, communicate clearly, and lead with purpose to deliver meaningful outcomes in a dynamic and high-impact environment.

For more information read the full Role Description:  Principal Project Officer - Native Title Policy Team

What you will bring to the role

You’re confident leading complex projects from concept to delivery, balancing competing priorities and navigating sensitive stakeholder environments with clarity and purpose.

You bring strong communication and negotiation skills, able to engage diverse audiences, manage expectations, and build consensus around shared outcomes.

You think strategically and solve problems with a practical mindset, using research and analysis to guide decisions and improve systems.

You understand how to manage contracts, budgets and procurement processes to ensure transparency, compliance and value for money.

You lead with integrity and purpose, supporting your team’s growth and performance while embedding culturally respectful approaches in your work with First Nations communities.

Key skills and experience

Demonstrated experience leading and delivering complex, multi-stakeholder projects within government or legal/policy environments.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop evidence-based recommendations and manage project risks.

High-level written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare briefings, reports and correspondence for senior audiences.

Proven ability to manage stakeholder relationships, including consultation and negotiation with Aboriginal communities, peak bodies and other government agencies.

Experience in contract and procurement management, including drafting documentation and monitoring performance.

Understanding of financial processes and budget planning, with the ability to prepare business cases and funding strategies.

Leadership experience in managing teams, supporting performance development and aligning work with strategic goals.

Understanding of Aboriginal cultural perspectives and Native Title, with a commitment to inclusive and respectful engagement.

About us

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) improves the liveability and prosperity of NSW. To achieve this, we: create vibrant, productive spaces and precincts; manage lands, assets and property effectively and deliver affordable and diverse housing. We strive to be a high-performing, world-class public service organisation that celebrates and reflects the full diversity of the community we serve and builds the cultural capability of our department to improve outcomes with and for Aboriginal people, communities and entities.

We are an inclusive and accessible workplace, where your individual contributions are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to feel a sense of connection and belonging. DPHI supports various employee affinity groups, practices flexible working, offers job share and workplace adjustments.

Join us

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 11:55PM on Monday 25 August 2025

NOTE: Never make payment to any employer, person, company, contractor or agency to get hired for a Job.

Should you require further information about the role contact Phil Berry on: phil.berry@dpie.nsw.gov.au