Senior Associate, Policy

The Cabinet Office

Senior Associate, Policy

You. At the centre of big ideas.

• Influence policy reform and Cabinet decision-making across NSW
  
• Bring your policy, stakeholder engagement and leadership experience to the Domestic Family and Sexual Violence (DFSV), Civil Justice and Courts team
  
• Full-time temporary, Clerk Grade 9/10 ($133,348 - $146,945 per annum) opportunity up to 10 September 2027, based in Martin Place, Sydney CBD.

Lead complex policy and reform projects across DFSV, civil justice, criminal justice and courts issues while supporting Cabinet decision-making at the centre of government.

About the Role
The DFSV, Civil Justice and Courts Team is seeking to fill a temporary Senior Associate, Policy opportunity until 10 September 2027, with the potential to be extended or convert to ongoing.

As a Senior Associate, Policy, you will lead complex policy and reform work, provide strategic advice on emerging issues, and contribute to the development of Cabinet submissions, briefing materials and high-quality policy advice. You will work across government to support evidence-based decision-making and deliver initiatives that contribute to the NSW Government's priorities.

You will join the Justice and Community Security Branch, part of the Social Policy and Intergovernmental Relations Group. The team works on a broad range of issues, partnering with agencies and stakeholders to drive policy reform and improve outcomes for the people of NSW.

This opportunity provides exposure to high-profile policy issues, Cabinet processes, stakeholder engagement and strategic reform initiatives, while also offering opportunities to mentor and support junior team members.

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

We're Looking For

• Policy Development and Reform: Experience developing and implementing policy, service delivery reforms, strategic initiatives or cross-agency projects
• Subject Matter Expertise: Experience in civil justice, legal policy, DFSV policy or a related public policy environment
• Policy Analysis and Advice: Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate complex information into clear, evidence-based advice for senior decision-makers
• Briefing and Cabinet Processes: Experience preparing high-quality briefs, Cabinet submissions and other written advice in a government or complex policy environment
• Project Delivery: Proven ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines and deliver high-quality outcomes in a fast-paced environment
• Stakeholder Engagement: Strong consultation, relationship management and negotiation skills, with the ability to work effectively across government and with external stakeholders.

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, 26 August 2026 (11:59 PM)

Salary: Clerk Grade 9/10. Package includes base salary ($133,348 - $146,945) plus superannuation (12%) and leave loading.

Hiring Manager: Sarah Coe, Associate Director, Policy on ••••@tco.nsw.gov.au

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 ••••@premiersdepartment.nsw.gov.au, or reaching out to the hiring manager.

Talent Pool: A talent pool may be created from this recruitment process. Individuals who have experience in legislative and justice matters, and/or other social policy areas are also encouraged to apply. 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.