The Cabinet Office
Associate Director, Policy
You. At the centre of big ideas.
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Lead high impact policy shaping government priorities and decisions
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Bring your strong policy leadership experience and stakeholder influence skills
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Ongoing, Clerk Grade 11/12 ($149,739 - $173,174 per annum) opportunity based in Martin Place, Sydney CBD.
About the Role
This is a senior policy leadership role working at the centre of government.
As an Associate Director, Policy, you will lead complex policy work across priority areas at different stages in the policy cycles - from shaping early thinking through to informing critical government outcomes. You’ll manage projects and teams, provide clear and practical advice to senior executives and the Premier, and influence policy advice that supports government decision‑making
Working in the Environment, Energy and Primary Industries Branch, within the Energy, Environment and Evidence Group, you’ll collaborate across agencies and with key external stakeholders on cross‑portfolio and state‑significant issues that spans energy, environment and water policy, primary industries, crown lands, climate change, infrastructure and economic transition.
To learn more about the role, please review the Role Description.
We're Looking For
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Extensive experience leading complex policy, reform, or cross‑agency initiatives
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Experience or familiarity with the fields of environment, energy, water, climate change or primary industry is a strong advantage
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Demonstrated leadership experience, including managing high performing teams and delivering outcomes through others
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Strong policy capability, from research through to development, influencing, negotiations strategic policy outcomes
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System thinking and proven ability to deliver high‑quality strategic analysis and advice for senior decision‑makers, making connections across different portfolios
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Strong written and verbal communication, agile stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills across government and with external partners
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Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment.
We value diverse experiences. Even if you're not sure you meet all requirements, we encourage you to apply.
Why Join Us?
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Flexible Working: Broad range of flexible working arrangements
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Career Development: Ongoing learning through expert-led sessions, online training, and professional development opportunities
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Work-Life Balance: Flex time accrual for extra hours worked (for non-executive roles) based on a 35-hour standard week
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Wellbeing Support: Access to employee assistance program, fitness passport program, and wellbeing initiatives
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Inclusive Culture: Staff-led networks including Aboriginal Staff Advisory Committee, Diversity & Inclusion Network, and Young Professionals Network
How to Apply
Interested applicants should first discuss and seek the support of their manager before applying.
Click ‘Apply Online’ and submit your application including:
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A resume detailing relevant knowledge, skills and experience (maximum 3 pages)
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A cover letter of no more than one page addressing how you meet the requirements of the role
Closing date: Wednesday, 17 June 2026 (9:59 AM)
Salary: Classification Clerk Grade 11/12. Package includes base salary ($149,739 - $173,17 plus superannuation (12%) and leave loading.
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.
